OASC Interview

Question 1

Why have you chosen the RAF specifically and not the Army or Navy?

Answer 1

While I was initially focused on joining the RAF from the beginning because of my interest in aerospace and flying. After looking further into what the RAF offers, I found myself more determined with joining. To be part of an organisation that is both on the forefront of cutting-edge technology and futuristic innovation but also is prideful on its long history and heritage. An incredibly part of the RAF’s history is the Battle of Britain, an amazing feat of protecting the UK and its future from the tyranny of fascism. To quote Winston Churchill “Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few.” I believe this statement to still resonate to this day and want to be a part of this.

Question 2

What influenced your decision to join?

Answer 2

In my youth, I was very interested in strategy, military, and aerospace topics but choose to explore these through video games. I continued this into my early adult life where I ended up studying for a game design degree but found I was more interested and suited to those topics and the technical and problem-solving side of game development. During this time, I also had my first flight lesson and got to experience the world of aerospace. I looked around for job opportunities that suited this and came to the Royal Air Force. I admired what it stood for, and what it represents, what opportunities it could offer me with the return of being able to serve my country and protect my home. From that moment onwards, I knew that this is what I wanted to do.

Question 3

What have you done to prepare physically?

Answer 3

Originally, I completed the Fit for action 12-week program to help pass my fitness test. Since then, I have been routinely running, with my goal is completing a half-marathon in a respectable time. My current furthest distance has been 10km in 54 mins. I have also been hiking once a month and generally average 11 miles in 3 hours, occasionally will do 20 miles in 8 hours. I also maintain my level of fitness at the gym.

Question 4

What are your weaknesses?

Answer 4

o Maths – I always had found maths rather difficult and I was confronted with this during my first CBAT which significantly held me back. I used the time in-between waiting to focus on improving my mathematical abilities and skill. So that when I retook my second CBAT my maths score was much higher than last time, which although I was not able to pass the Pilot score, did make me immensely proud of what I was able to achieve.

Question 5

• What Qualities are needed for commission?

Answer 5

As a member of the RAF, having both self-respect and mutual respect for everyone no matter their beliefs, race, region, gender, orientation, or social background and having the conviction to do what is right even though it be unpopular or dangerous. Being honest with yourself, your team, and RAF, having the responsibility to carry out your duty no matter the cost or risk to your own life or others, being always committed and loyal to the service and the nation. Finally, having the discipline, pride and understanding to always strive for the best you could achieve and to the highest possible standard.

Question 6

Why did you choose Air Operation (Systems) Officer?

Answer 6

While I did originally apply for the Pilot role and was not able to pass the CBAT requirements, I did provide an opportunity to evaluate the role I wanted in the RAF. Because of my interest in strategy and problem-solving throughout my life, my fascination with space and of air operations and their history, the role of Air Operations Systems appeals greatly both to my personal interests but also fulfils my own aspirations and desires for what I want in a career. ????

Question 7

What is your service length?

Answer 7

Commission of 12 years, afterwards I may be selected to continue a pension earning commission of 20 years’ service or to the age of 40.

Question 8

What efforts have you made to find out more about the RAF?

Answer 8

o Information from the Facebook and Twitter accounts of RAF stations, squadrons, and groups.
o News information from the RAF site, Forces.net, UK defence journal.
o Station visits of RAF Marham in February 2020
o 2 RAF Waddington virtual candidate days in Jan and July 2021
o Contacted Wing Commander Heather Ratnage-Black, Mission Support Flight of 29 Sqn at RAF Coningsby – Provided in-depth information regarding the duties of an officer and the career opportunities of the branch.
o In addition, contacting other members going through Air Operations (Systems) Officer selection and helped each other with research and preparation.

Question 9

What does your trade do?

Answer 9

o It is a diverse and complex role that directs and supports operations both in the UK and across the world. It is composed of 3 roles: Flight Operations, Aerospace Surveillance, and Space Operations. Important tasks fulfilled are:
 Generating and maintaining military flying programmes and overseeing airfield operations.
 Processing flight data information and monitoring flight progress of military flights.
 Forming part of the Mobile Air Operations Team which supports helicopter operations.
 Monitoring foreign surveillance satellites and notifying friendly forces of potential hostile actions and espionage.

Question 10

What happens during your Phase 1 training?

Answer 10

o Modularised Initial Officer Training Course at RAF College Cranwell is 24 Weeks.
o It comprises 4x 6-week modules:
 Military Induction Module - covering basic military skills and service knowledge.
 Developmental Module 1 – covering leadership development, physical training, and air power studies.
 Developmental Module 2 – continued leadership development, welfare, and Air Control and Command.
 Consolidation – final tests, transition and graduation.
o It also comprises 7 exercises in total.
 Phoenix Edge – Module 1 Week 5
 Practical Leadership Exercise 1 & 2 (Module 2 Week 2 + 4) – non-specific pre-deployment training/Mission Specific Training
 Eagles Edge (Module 2 Week 6) – First tactical deployment
 Commanders Edge – Module 3 Week 3 – Mini Command & Control
 Astra Edge – Module 4 Week 1 – Air Command & Control exercise
 First Week – Module 4 Week 4 – Office management simulator

o Military Induction Module covers basic military skills and knowledge required for military service such as foot drill, military discipline, weapon training, skills at arms, basic field-craft, first aid, CBRN protection, physical training and education, military ethos and core values of RISE.
 Week 1 – Arrival, General Service Knowledge, Medical, Drill, Physical Education.
 Week 2 – First Aid, continued GSK & Ped
 Week 3 – CBRN ‘’
 Week 4 – Weapons ‘’
 Week 5 – Phoenix Edge
 Week 6 – GSK Exam, RAF Fitness Test

o Developmental Module 1 covers developing mental and physical resilience while learning about command and leadership with academic study into Air and Space Power.
 Week 1 – Self-Awareness and Knowing Self, Air & Space Power, PEd
 Week 2 – Team leadership, Self-regulation, Peer Review, continued A&S Power & PEd
 Week 3 – RRC Crickhowell – Leadership through Adventure Training.
 Week 4 – Types and Styles of leadership in command, ‘’
 Week 5 – Team leadership, Trust, Diversity, Innovation, Command, ‘’
 Week 6 – Eagle Edge

o Development Module 2 covers developing leadership and management styles with an understanding of Air Command & Control.
 Week 1 – Command Functions & Tasks
 Week 2 – Command & Control doctrine, Line Management
 Week 3 – Air & Space Power, PEd, Line Management, Stress management, Commanders Edge
 Week 4 – Air Command & Control
 Week 5 – Mental Health, Welfare, and care in leadership
 Week 6 – Line manager responsibilities week.

o Consolidation Module – Preparation for graduation and final tests. Then finally graduation.
 Week 1 – Astra Edge
 Week 2 – RRC Grantown on Spey – Adventure Training
 Week 3 – Exams
 Week 4 – First Week
 Week 5 – Phase 2 specialisation, Drill
 Week 6 – Graduation

Question 11

What happens during your Phase 2 training?

Answer 11

o Specialist training is delivered at the Defence College of Air and Space Control operations at RAF Shawbury.
o It begins with the 2-weeks Common Air Operations Module, which covers base level understanding of Air Operations topics like weather, Space and Battlespace Management Force, Safety Management and Airspace Management. After, assigned a core specialisation of Aerospace Surveillance or Flight Operations.
o Aerospace Surveillance (26 weeks) -
 Surveillance Foundation Course (6 weeks) – Introduction to surveillance theory, application of identification categories and console-based routine.
• Theory Module (1 Week) – UK Airspace/RADAR Theory/ RAP/UK ASACS – 9 Theory Sessions of 26 hrs
• Fundamental ID Module (2 Weeks) – Application of ID Fundamental and RAP production in simulator.
• Advanced ID Module (4 Weeks) – Application of Air Policing and QRA principles.
 Air Surveillance and Control System Ground School (4 weeks) – RAF Boulmer OCU. Introduction to battlespace management, mission planning, and electronic warfare.
 Combat Identification Course (16 weeks) – RAF Boulmer OCU. UK operations theory with practical modules. Transition from simulated to live environment.
• South-West
• South-East
• North-West
• North-East
o Flight Operations (7 weeks) – School of Air Operations and Control
 Flight Operations Training Course (7 weeks) –
• Mod 1&2 (Week1-2)/SIM 1&2 Summative Sqn Ops (Week3-4) – Regulations and processes for facilitating aviation at both station and squadron level.
• Heli-Tasking Summative (Week 5) – Aircraft tasking
• Mod 3 Theory & EAW Summative (Week 6) – Operational and Expeditionary Air Wing processes and procedures.
• EOC Theory & Open Book Summative (Week 7) – Final assessment then graduation and posting.

Question 12

What will be your first tour?

Answer 12

Foundation tour is 24 months. Once completed will achieve ‘Combat Ready’ status and be able to deploy on operations.
 Aerospace Surveillance – QRA Identification Officer at the Control and Reporting Centre at RAF Boulmer. Providing aircraft identification and situational awareness to Weapon Controllers and HQ.
 Flight Operations – Station Operations Officer at an RAF airfield.

Question 13

How will your career develop?

Answer 13

o Aerospace Surveillance:
 Defence College of Air and Space Operations
 Joint Forces Air Component Headquarters at 11 Group.
 E7 Wedgetail Mission Crew (RAF Lossiemouth) - Surveillance Operator/Electronic Support Measures Operator
 Multi-national exchange post
 16 Air Assault Brigade – air operations / 16 Regiment Royal Artillery – 49 Battery – Land Environment Air Picture Provision.
 Ballistic Missile Early Warning Space Operator (RAF Fylingdales)
o Flight Operations:
 Duty Operations Controller for station operations.
 Defence Support Chain Operations & Movements – Providing movements and airlift planning support.
 ASCOT Controller (RAF Brize Norton) – monitoring of Air Traffic aircraft landing and departure times and on-route transit times.
 A5 – Air strategy and contingency planning officer
 SpOC – Space Operations Officer
 Squadron Operations Officer
 A3 – Air operations safety officer
 Crew Commander ???

Question 14

What secondary duties will you have as an officer?

Answer 14

o Secondary duties allow officers to demonstrate their abilities and determination outside of the primary role, but also to help contribute to both the RAF, peers and the wider public.
 Running a station sports team
 Organising functions
 Member of the Mess Committee – Secretary, Treasurer
 Liaison officer for external organisations such as the Air Cadets.

Question 15

How is RAF Organised?

Answer 15

o The RAF is led by Air Chief Marshal Mike Wigston.
o RAF is managed by HQ Air Command.
o The different capabilities and responsibilities of the RAF operations is managed by Groups. There are 5 groups:
 1 Group - Air Combat (Typhoon Force and Lightning Force) and ISTAR.
 2 Group - Air mobility Force, Support Force, Airborne Delivery Wing, Force Protection Force (RAF Regiment and RAF Police), and the Space & Battle Management Force.
 11 Group - Multi-domain operations. Joint Force Air Component Headquarters and the National Air & Space Operations Centre.
 22 Group – Covers all RAF training. Directorate of Ground Training, Directorate of Flying Training, Defence College of Technical Training, RAF Cadets, Directorate of RAF Sport.
 83 Expeditionary Air Group - Middle Eastern operations. OP SHADER & OP KIPION. HQ is Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar.
o The RAF also contributes to Strategic Command, UK Space Command, and Joint Helicopter Command with the Helicopter Support Force.

Question 16

What are the ISTAR aircraft currently in use?

Answer 16

o Aircraft that are part of the ISTAR Force of 1 Group at RAF Waddington:
 MQ-9A Reaper (13 and 39 Sqn) - Remote Piloted Aerial System that provides long-endurance surveillance and attack mission roles.
 Poseidon MRA1 (120 & 201 Sqn at RAF Lossiemouth) - Provides maritime patrol, Anti-surface warfare, and Anti-submarine warfare roles.
 RC-135W Rivet Joint (51 Sqn) - Provides Electronic signals surveillance role.
 R1 Shadow (14 Sqn) - Provides tactical aerial surveillance for battlefield commanders.

Question 17

What are the Air Mobility aircraft currently in use?

Answer 17

o Aircraft that are part of the Air Mobility Force of 2 Group at RAF Brize Norton:
 Globemaster C-17 (99 Sqn) – Long-range and heavy-lift strategic transport.
 Hercules C-130J (47 Sqn) – Primary tactical transport that is highly flexible and capable of low-level flying for airdrops.
 Atlas C.1 A400M (70 & 30 Sqn) – Tactical and strategic lift that is capable of high- and low-level flight.
 Voyager (10 & 101 Sqn) – Provides air-to-air refuelling and passenger transport. One has been converted for use by Royal Family and senior government members.

Question 18

What equipment and platforms are expected in the near future?

Answer 18

o Protector is currently being trialled and will be introduced in 2024. It will replace the MQ-9A Reaper with better capabilities. The pre-production model called SkyGuardian is being used for trails at RAF Waddington.
o 3x E-7 Wedgetail is planned to be introduced in 2023 based at RAF Lossiemouth and operated by 8 Squadron. This is will replace the E-3 Sentry that was retired this year. Airborne early warning and control provides a mobile means to provide situational awareness and battlespace management regardless of location.

Question 19

What operations are the RAF currently involved in?

Answer 19

o UK & Falklands Quick Reaction Alert – formation of the UK & Falklands Recognised Air Picture using the UK ASACS from RAF Boulmer and the interception of suspicious aircraft using Typhoon FG4’s from either RAF Lossiemouth or RAF Coningsby.
o OP SHADER – UK’s commitment against the Islamic State in Syria.
o OP KIPION – RAF’s operation of air bridge in the Middle East.
o OP NEWCOMBE – UK contribution to the UN mission in Mali.
o OP RESCRIPT – UK operation to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK. Using the COVID Support Force to provide aid to the NHS and civil authorities. It achieved this through providing doctors and medical support, and airlifting supplies and patients across the UK with the Aviation Task Force.
o OP BROADSHARE – UK operation to provide for aid for the COVID-19 pandemic overseas in the Overseas Territories. It is currently helping deliver COVID-19 vaccines to affected territories.
o Previously
 OP BELOXI – NATO Southern Air Policing in Romania.
 OP PITTING – Afghanistan Evacuation.
 OP TORAL – UK commitment to NATO Resolute Support Mission.

Question 20

How do you define Airpower?

Answer 20

o Airpower is the ability to use air capabilities in and from the air to influence the behaviour of actors and course of events.
o Airpower is defined by the characteristics of:
 Height – Allows exploitation of the vertical dimension to access the maritime and land domains. Tactically, height can avoid many surface threats and gives the ability to manoeuvre leading to better survivability.
 Speed – Speed of aircraft allows rapid and swift deployment to deal with a crisis when required.
 Reach – Air domain allows complete unobstructive reach to the entire world, providing opportunities to observe and influence regardless of location.
 Agility – Multi-role and multi-mission capabilities allows agile and flexible responses to threats as and when they arise.
 Ubiquity – Combination of all enables the theoretical potential to be everywhere and whenever needed. Typhoons support by a Voyager tanker achieves this through air control with multi-mission capabilities and aerial refuelling to reach any target.
o Air power is achieved through 4 roles:
 Air Control – Secures freedom of action and prevents an adversity from it, and protects UK and forces from attack.
 ISR – Informs the development of understanding across all environments.
 Attack – coerce and influence actors into changing or maintaining behaviour.
 Air Mobility – enables movement, manoeuvre, and sustainment.

Question 21

What is the purpose of the RAF?

Answer 21

o To provide an agile, adaptable, and capable Air Force that, person for person, is second to none, and that makes a decisive air power contribution in support of the UK Defence Mission.
o It achieves this by:
 Defending the skies of Britain and projecting Britain’s power and influence around the world.
 Working with international partners around the world and providing world-class air force experience and training to help prevent conflict by strengthening national and international security. This helps maintain good relations which in turn allows greater operational reach.
 Delivering humanitarian aid, equipment, and people into needed areas quickly and evacuating civilians and military personal from natural disasters and unrest.

Question 22

What is NATO?

Answer 22

o North Atlantic Treaty Organisation was founded 4 April 1949.
o It is currently comprised of 30 members.
o Latest member: North Macedonia joining in 27 March 2020.
o Alliance based on the system of collective security; whereby independent member states agree to mutual defence in response to an attack by any external party.