Aircraft Selection in the Military: Pilots and Their Choices
Choosing which aircraft a pilot will fly in the military can be a multifaceted decision influenced by various factors. This article explores the process of aircraft selection, detailing how pilots are assigned to specific aircraft types and the impact of their preferences and performance.
Initial Training: The Starting Point
Upon completing initial training, pilots often undergo a selection process where they may have input based on their performance and interests. This phase is crucial as it lays the foundation for the pilot's future assignments. Students are encouraged to submit a 'wish list' of aircraft they would like to fly, but the final decision ultimately rests with the military.
The Needs of the Service
Truly, the primary factor in aircraft selection is the operational needs of the service. The military prioritizes missions and tactics over individual preferences, meaning pilots may be assigned to aircraft based on what is required. This can lead to unexpected assignments, even for those with a strong desire for a particular type of aircraft.
Specialization and Competitive Opportunities
Some branches of the military, such as the Air Force, allow pilots to specialize in specific aircraft types like fighters, bombers, and transport planes. However, these opportunities are limited and highly competitive, driving pilots to excel in their training and perform exceptionally well in missions.
Career Progression: Advancing Opportunities
As pilots advance in their careers, they gain more opportunities to choose their aircraft based on their experience, qualifications, and available assignments. This progression allows for greater personal choice but is still guided by the military's operational needs.
Branch Differences: Unique Selection Policies
Different branches of the military, such as the Air Force, Navy, and Army, have distinct policies and processes for aircraft selection. Each branch has its own unique requirements and strategies, contributing to the overall decision-making process.
Real-World Experience
During my flight training, I had the opportunity to submit my preferences and, by the time of transition training, my first choice, the F8 Crusader, had been phased out, making the A7 Corsair my second choice. To my luck, I ended up flying the A7E, which was a "quantum leap" in terms of weaponry. The A7E featured the first Head-Up Display (HUD) in a US military aircraft, and its navigation was enhanced by INS (inertial navigation system) and terrain-following radar – all years before GPS became standard.
The A7E was powered by a PW TF-30 engine, later upgraded to an Allison Spey TF-41 for the E model. This engine was fuel-efficient, allowing A7 pilots to go for long missions without the need for refueling. In fact, the A7 could trap (land) with 5200 lbs of fuel after burning 4800 lbs in the wings. The dry weight of the A7E was slightly over 19000 lbs. Some of my missions involved firing Mk 61 Vulcan 20mm cannons, even when the Forward Air Controller (FAC) did not have a lucrative target. The A7's radar system was capable, providing target ranging, ground avoidance, area search, and navigational assistance, among other modes.
It's worth noting that the A7 could take off when its dryweight plus fuel was over 42000 lbs, which made the experience quite intense. The underpower of the TF-30 engine made the aircraft feel even more powerful in relative terms.
In summary, while pilots may have some input in the aircraft they fly, the selection process is heavily influenced by the military's operational needs. The combination of initial training, performance, specialization, career progression, and branch-specific policies determines the final decision.