What does a 'Weapons Systems Operator (crewman) do in the RAF?

Question

Information about this or other jobs in the RAF and Army Air Corps that is part of a crew but not a pilot would be great please!

Answer 1

The job title is self expanatory. he is the operator of the weapons system.

Answer 2

Used to be the navigator. Now, in 2 seat military aircraft he operates the weapons systems.

Other aircrew roles are Air Loadmaster, Winchman (helicopters) and Air defence Radar operators on board E3 AWACS.

Stewards and Stewardesses operate on board some transport aircraft (VC10 and L101)

Answer 3

The word weapon does not generally mean bombs and bullets but aircraft. Types range from fighters, cargo, maritime survaillance and helicopters

Weapon Systems Operators (Crewman) plan for the freight – supplies or personnel, weapons, relief packages or a medical team – to be loaded, carried and unloaded from aircraft quickly and safely. You may also have an important role on the flight deck, offering hands-on assistance and information to the pilots. For some missions, you could be trained to operate the aircraft’s defence systems.

During your training, your skills and the RAF’s needs determine whether you work on rotary wing aircraft (helicopters) or fixed-wing aircraft.

As a Weapon Systems Operator (Crewman), you can also volunteer to train as a Winchman on a Sea King Search and Rescue helicopter later in your career.

All Weapon Systems Operators join the RAF as non-commissioned aircrew. After your recruit and specialist training, you’ll be streamed, according to your skills, to become a Weapon Systems Operator (Crewman), a Weapon Systems Operator (Acoustic and Electronic Warfare) or a Weapon Systems Operator (Linguist).