7 Air Force Combat Careers You Should Consider
If you’re interested in serving in the Air Force and having a career that involves combat, there are several options to consider. From flying fighter jets to working in special operations, the Air Force offers a range of combat careers that can be both challenging and rewarding. Here are 7 Air Force combat careers you should consider:
1. Fighter Pilot
As a fighter pilot, you’ll fly and fight in advanced aircraft like the F-15 Eagle or F-16 Fighting Falcon. You’ll be responsible for defending the skies and supporting ground troops with airpower. To become a fighter pilot, you’ll need to meet strict physical and mental requirements, as well as complete a rigorous training program.
Requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between 17 and 39 years old
- Have a bachelor’s degree
- Pass a physical exam
- Pass the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test
2. Combat Controller
Combat controllers are special operations forces who work with ground troops to coordinate airpower. They’re trained to operate in high-stress environments and are skilled in combat tactics, parachuting, and combat diving. Combat controllers are also trained to work with advanced technology, such as drones and precision-guided munitions.
Requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between 17 and 39 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a physical exam
- Pass the Air Force’s Special Operations Weather Team (SOWT) selection course
3. Tactical Air Control Party (TACP)
TACPs are airmen who work with ground troops to coordinate airpower. They’re trained to operate in high-stress environments and are skilled in combat tactics, map reading, and communication. TACPs also work with advanced technology, such as precision-guided munitions and drones.
Requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between 17 and 39 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a physical exam
- Pass the Air Force’s Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) selection course
4. Security Forces
Security forces are airmen who are responsible for protecting Air Force bases and personnel. They’re trained in combat tactics, first aid, and law enforcement procedures. Security forces also work with advanced technology, such as surveillance cameras and intrusion detection systems.
Requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between 17 and 39 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a physical exam
- Pass the Air Force’s Security Forces training course
5. Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)
EOD airmen are trained to disarm and dispose of explosive devices. They work in high-stress environments and are skilled in combat tactics, explosives, and hazardous materials. EOD airmen also work with advanced technology, such as bomb disposal robots and X-ray machines.
Requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between 17 and 39 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a physical exam
- Pass the Air Force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) training course
6. Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE)
SERE airmen are trained to survive in hostile environments and evade capture. They’re skilled in combat tactics, wilderness survival, and resistance techniques. SERE airmen also work with advanced technology, such as GPS devices and satellite communication systems.
Requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between 17 and 39 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a physical exam
- Pass the Air Force’s Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) training course
7. Pararescue
Pararescue airmen are trained to rescue personnel in hostile environments. They’re skilled in combat tactics, parachuting, and combat diving. Pararescue airmen also work with advanced technology, such as helicopters and precision-guided munitions.
Requirements:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be between 17 and 39 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Pass a physical exam
- Pass the Air Force’s Pararescue training course
🔥 Note: These requirements are subject to change and may vary depending on the specific career and location.
What is the most physically demanding Air Force combat career?
+
Pararescue is often considered the most physically demanding Air Force combat career, as it requires a high level of physical fitness and involves parachuting, combat diving, and other physically demanding tasks.
What is the most mentally demanding Air Force combat career?
+
Combat controller is often considered the most mentally demanding Air Force combat career, as it requires a high level of mental toughness and involves working in high-stress environments.
How long does it take to become an Air Force combat pilot?
+
It typically takes around 2-3 years to become an Air Force combat pilot, including completion of a bachelor's degree, officer training, and flight training.
The Air Force offers a range of combat careers that can be both challenging and rewarding. Whether you’re interested in flying fighter jets or working in special operations, there’s an Air Force combat career that’s right for you.
