Tag Archives: 18x

First non-Pilots Graduate MQ-9 Training

In 2009 the Air Force conducted beta classes in which it trained officers who had not previously been pilots to be UAV operators.  (It also created new “wings” for the RPA pilots and granted them flight pay.)  Earlier this year, the first non-pilots graduated into the RQ-4 Global Hawk, a keyboard-operated UAV.

Now, the first non-prior pilots have graduated to become MQ-9 Reaper operators:

This marks the first time a student pilot Read more

Air Force Announces Dedicated UAV Pilot Training

After some early experiments, the Air Force announced that it is establishing an official, dedicated “undergraduate RPA training (URT)” pipeline.  The first class is slated to begin in October 2010.

According to the release, RPA (UAV) pilots will be part of the 18X career field, which is a rated field equivalent to traditional aviators.  They will receive aviation incentive pay, and incur a 6 year active duty service commitment.