We have a new track of guys that are exactly that. Initial cadre UAS guys. They are trained from day 1 to fly UAV's. The AF manning will be 20% real pilots and 80% UAV guys in that world.

 

That would be my guess as well, however I still contend that it shouldn't be that crucial that the operator be a 'real' pilot (for lack of better terminology). All the knowledge required to be a 'real' pilot is taught in training. I could be way off base but I don't see learning to be an RPA operator as all that different from learning any other specialized task. You acquire training and schooling on the subject you are going to specialize in.

Admittedly, operating a flying machine remotely within airpsace shared by flying humans is not something that those without the proper aptitude and training should undertake, but thankfully our country has proven that we have many people capable of achieving such things...if they are given the training to do so. Just IMHO.

 

But their training is more extensive than just a video game, right? IIRC they get some actual trainer time?

But I'm pretty sure the FAA will draw the line for operations in non-restricted domestic airspace.

 

The UAV pilots did not commission the studies nor did they have anything to do with this being written. The community is going through numerous studies to see what the true effect is on a person is flying drones and remotely killing people. This is just an excerpt from the studies. They are massively undermanned so its like the roach motel....you get in but you can't get out. This undermanning also leads to surge shifts.....6 to 7 on 1 off and the prospect they may never make it back to their primary aircraft. Now you flying around in your shiny little pointy jet building time and having fun while they live in Vegas and sit in a box all day....99% of the time bored off their ass may not understand the big picture. So, go ahead and insult them all you want, but try to put yourself in their shoes. I think if they did studies on any group in this day and age they would reach similar conclusions. Everyone has to live their reality.

 

We've got nearly 100 years of experience flying real airplanes and killing people anywhere from a few hundred yards away to many miles. We don't need numerous studies.

If someone's trying to say killing remotely is somehow more stressful than doing it in a real aircraft, I scoff. Killing someone "remotely" via drone is no different than via JDAM, LGB or any other standoff weapon.

 

How badly are they undermanned, and how are they trying to increase numbers? I would think that the pay and stability are good, so many guys sick of regionals/CFIing would jump at this....shoot go to flight schools...from mom and pop to the big name four year programs. I would think 'shortage' fixed. ?

 

This study sounds like some O-6's eval bullet for the GO selection board.

 

Less chest thumping, more thinking.

 

Jdam and lgb's are not standoff weapons. Don't mean to argue but no one shoots at rpa operators. I've had missiles coming at me with both of the others.

 

Depends on the threat envelope

USMCFLYR