Originally Posted by
JetPiedmont
Considering the fuel situation, are there drawdowns in the military regarding available pilot slots, available flying rosters and tours when budgets and costs become of prime concern?
Also, what should he know about things like UAV assignments and other less than ideal situations an aspiring military pilot could find himself in due to budget constraints, new technologies, etc?
I intend for these to be fair questions, so our friend can make an informed decision.
The military does not drawdown based on fuel prices. They can just spend the money, although you might see less flight time and more sim time as a budgetary measure.
Actually the USAF is gearing up to manufacture their own jet fuel.
UAV's are a risk, but if you get into heavies (tankers and transports) they will always be manned for the forseeable future.
The military budget is usually determined by percieved threats, not the economy or oil prices...and there are currently plenty of threats, between islamic terrorism and the proliferation of high-tech weapons and nuclear programs among non-friendly and rogue nations.
Technology will replace some high-risk human jobs, but the techy operators will probably outnumber the replaced soldiers...and their jobs will be safer and more comfortable.
I would assume that the military will not do large drawdowns during your career (next 20-30 years). However, the military is an up-or-out organization...you have to perform competively at every level to advance and stay in long enough to reach retirement.