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RAF REGIMENT
OFFICER
Currently recruiting
Sport & fitness Transport & vehicles Travelling the world
PAY DURING INITIAL OFFICER TRAINING + SIX MONTHS
£31,300+
+ Benefits
PAY AFTER 3 YEARS SERVICE + PROMOTION TO THE RANK OF FLT LT
£47,600
+ Benefits

As an RAF Regiment Officer, you will specialise in ground combat tactics, weaponry and field craft. You will lead and direct the RAF Regiment squadrons that protect RAF bases and forward operating bases.

 

Already applied? See what the next steps are >

What will you do?

You’ll be a specialist in all facets of force protection, which range from dismounted close combat tactics and fieldcraft to security and understanding how air operations are delivered. In your role you will: 

 

  • Operate and employ a variety of weapons and surveillance systems
  • Lead, command and inspire a “flight” of up to 35 Gunners
  • Evaluate tactical situations, formulate a plan and brief troops
  • Provide specialist advice and planning to enable the safe conduct of air operations both at home and overseas
  • Operate in peacekeeping, counter-terrorist and full-scale war situations

 

Currently recruiting
Sport & fitness Transport & vehicles Travelling the world
DAY RATE STARTS AT:
£78.60
+ Benefits

As an RAF Regiment Officer, you will specialise in ground combat tactics, weaponry and field craft. You will lead and direct the RAF Regiment squadrons that protect RAF bases and forward operating bases.

 

Already applied? See what the next steps are >

What will you do?

You’ll be a specialist in all facets of force protection, which range from dismounted close combat tactics and fieldcraft to security and understanding how air operations are delivered. In your role you will:

 

  • Operate and employ a variety of weapons and surveillance systems
  • Lead, command and inspire a “flight” of up to 35 Gunners
  • Evaluate tactical situations, formulate a plan and brief troops
  • Provide specialist advice and planning to enable the safe conduct of air operations both at home and overseas
  • Operate in peacekeeping, counter-terrorist and full-scale war situations

 

Minimum Education Requirements
  • As a minimum, you will need GCSEs at Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 at Grade C in English Language, Mathematics and at least three other subjects.
  • In addition, you need at least 2 A2 Levels/3 Highers at Grade C or above (excluding General Studies, Critical Thinking and Citizenship Studies) which must total a minimum of 64 UCAS points.
  • Alternatively, if you hold a UK degree at Grade 2:2 or higher (or acceptable alternative) you only need Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of GCSE Grade C/4-5 or Scottish National 5 grade C.
Minimum Education Requirements
  • As a minimum, you will need GCSEs at Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 at Grade C in English Language, Mathematics and at least three other subjects.

  • In addition, you need at least 2 A2 Levels/3 Highers at Grade C or above (excluding General Studies, Critical Thinking and Citizenship Studies) which must total a minimum of 64 UCAS points. 

  • Alternatively, if you hold a UK degree at Grade 2:2 or higher (or acceptable alternative) you only need Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of GCSE Grade C/4-5 or Scottish National 5 grade C.

Requirements
  • Be aged 17.5 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday) 
  • Be a citizen of the UK or a holder of dual UK / other nationality
  • Commit to minimum 12 years of service
  • Meet the health and fitness criteria
  • Pass a fitness test

 

View all entry requirements >

RAF Regiment Officer with rifle on training range
Requirements
  • Personnel interested in obtaining a commission in the RAF Regiment Reserves are required to join the Specialisation first and then to commission from the ranks. Suitability and requirements can be obtained from Squadron specialists. 
  • Ex-Regular RAF Regiment officers and ex-military officers from an equivalent Branch will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 
  • Be aged 18-54 Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 9 months in order to attest before 55th birthday
  • Be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK / other nationality
  • Commit 27 days per year
  • Meet the health and fitness criteria
  • Pass a Fitness test - Details below

 

View all entry requirements >

RAF Regiment Officer with rifle on training range
Reserve role locations
Reserve roles exist in specific reserve squadrons, which in turn are located at specific RAF bases. As you will not be resident at those bases (except on multi-day operations or exercises), geographic proximity to where you live is important. These are the bases where this role is active:
603 Sqn, Edinburgh, Edinburgh
606 Sqn, RAF Benson, Oxon
609 Sqn, RAF Leeming, North Yorkshire
2503 Sqn, RAF Waddington, Lincolnshire
2620 Sqn, RAF Marham, Norfolk
2622 Sqn (Highland), RAF Lossiemouth, Moray
2623 Sqn, RAF Honington, Suffolk
2624 Sqn, RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire
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Life in the RAF Regiment
WARNING: This video contains flashing images. Train with your team, learn all the skills you need and defend bases across the globe through a role in the RAF Regiment.
CAREER, TRAINING
& EDUCATION
At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas.
01
Phase one training
Officer Training
white stopwatch icon for duration 24 weeks
white map-pin icon for location RAF Cranwell
You’ll begin your RAF career with the Modular Initial Officer Training Course (MIOTC) at the RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire.
02
Phase two training
Specialist training
white stopwatch icon for duration 26 weeks
white map-pin icon for location RAF Honington
Next is the Junior Regiment Officers’ Course (JROC) which is tough ground combat training.
03
Career prospects
Ongoing training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
You’ll join the RAF on an Initial Commission of 12 years.
04
Your first tour
Specialist training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
For your first tour you will be posted to an operational RAF Regiment squadron based in the UK.
05
Ongoing development
Ongoing training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
JROC is only the beginning. As you undertake new roles you will complete courses to help you meet any challenge.
06
Transferrable skills
Ongoing training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
The qualifications and experience you gain as an RAF Regiment Officer are valuable to the wider world too.
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TRAINING AND
CAREER
At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas.
01
Commitment
Your commitment
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
We ask that you commit to a minimum of 27 days each year with us.
02
Ongoing development
Ongoing training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
You will have valuable personal development opportunities together with the chance to work around the world, gaining unique experiences in the process.
03
Transferrable skills
Ongoing training
white stopwatch icon for duration Ongoing
white map-pin icon for location As assigned
Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies.
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WHY JOIN
THE RAF?

Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.

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Benefits icon for Rent from £75p/m
Rent from £75p/m
Benefits icon for Free gym
Free gym
Benefits icon for Subsidised food
Subsidised food
Benefits icon for Health care
Health care
Benefits icon for World travel
World travel
Benefits icon for Training
Training
WHY JOIN
THE RESERVES?

The skills you acquire as a Reserve won’t just prepare you for the RAF, they will enhance your work and civilian life.

 

You might be called up to assist with our operations worldwide for up to six months, during which you may be able to claim a pay award to cover your and your employer’s costs.

Benefits icon for Training
Training
Benefits icon for Free gym
Free gym
Benefits icon for Subsidised food
Subsidised food
Benefits icon for Paid pension
Paid pension
Benefits icon for Paid holiday
Paid holiday
COMMITMENT AND LOCATION

You will have to commit to 27 days per year for 12 years minimum. Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises.

 

You might be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after the first year.

WHAT HAPPENS
AFTER APPLYING
Joining the RAF takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are.
1
Selection interview
2
Health Assessment
3
Fitness Test & PROC
4
OASC
5
Familiarisation visit
6
Acceptance
7
Training
1
Selection interview
Stage 1 of 7

Selection interviews help us get to know you a little better – and vice versa. You’ll get to show your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining the RAF.

The first of these interviews happens on-line and covers the following topics:

  • Family life
  • Education
  • Work experience
  • Special interests or hobbies
  • Interest in the RAF
2
Health Assessment
Stage 2 of 7

You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index. We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role.

 

View details below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.

3
Fitness Test & PROC
Stage 3 of 7

Applicants for the Regiment Gunner role will have two fitness tests.

The first is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFC). This will take place at a local gym near to you, and includes a 2.4km run, push ups and a sit-ups. 

The second fitness test is during the Potential Regiment Officer Course (PROC) at RAF Honington, and includes the following:

  • RAF Swim Test
  • Multi-Stage Fitness Test
  • Press Ups/Sit Ups
  • RAF Regiment Applicant Selection Test (RAST)
  • 2 Km/1.25 mile run: PTI led 500m warm up to be completed within 5 mins. Followed by the 2km/1.25 mile best effort
  • Medicine Ball Throw
  • Static Deadlift

You can see what the Course entails here.

 

The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. Please refer to the entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation here.

4
OASC
Stage 4 of 7

This will be your first visit to the Officer and Aircrew Selection Centre. OASC lasts one day, but you will arrive the day before. During this time the officers will be assessing your leadership, teamwork, communication, motivation, and problem solving.

 

The day will end with an interview. The first half of the interview covers your achievements at school and college, in sports, your community, at work, and as a cadet, scout or guide.

The second half explores your motivation for joining the RAF – what you know about current affairs and the RAF’s role in the national and international arena, current operations the RAF is involved in and your knowledge about the RAF and the role you've applied for.

5
Familiarisation visit
Stage 5 of 7

This takes place over 2 days and is designed to give you an insight into officer training. You’ll be issued with your initial kit, including your boots, attend lectures, and also repeat the fitness test taken at PROC.

6
Acceptance
Stage 6 of 7

Once you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process you’ll be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO.

 

This is to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.

7
Training
Stage 7 of 7

(M)IOT and officer staff training


The Modular Initial Officer Training Course (MIOTC) has been designed to set commissioning officers up for their career in the RAF with the right skills and knowledge. This training will provide a solid platform for your continued development.

 

Visit our Cranwell training page for more information about (M)IOT and the rest of officer training.

ENTRY
REQUIREMENTS

Must be aged between 17.5 and 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday).

Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application. 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Have these minimum grades:

  GCSE pre-2017 GCSE 2017 and after Scottish National 5
English Language C Grade 4 C
Mathematics C Grade 4 C
Three other subjects C Grade 4 C

You must also have at least 2 A2 Levels/3 Highers at Grade C or above (excluding General Studies or Critical Thinking) which must total a minimum of 64 UCAS points.

Alternatively, if you hold a UK degree at Grade 2:2 or higher (or acceptable alternative) you only need Mathematics and English Language GCSEs at a minimum of Grade C (Grade 4-5) or SCE Standard Grades of 2 or SNE Grade 5 (A-C).

You can see what the RAF accepts in lieu of GCSEs & A Levels here.

NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY

NATIONALITY
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/other nationality.

 

RESIDENCY
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 3 years may be considered.

 

If you have resided abroad for a period due to work or study, you may still be eligible on a case by case basis. Please continue this registration and proceed to your full application.

FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

Applicants for the Regiment Officer role will do the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT). Benchmarks are as below.

The PJFT will take place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of the following:

  • 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline)
  • Achieve the required number of press-ups - within 60 seconds
  • Achieve the required number of sit-ups - within 60 seconds

How fit you need to be to pass these tests can vary depending on role, age and gender. The requirements for the PJFT are listed on the charts below (Male and Female).

MEN
AGE 2.4 Km Run Press-ups Sit-ups
  (Mins) (No.) (No.)
15-16 12.39 20 35
17-29 12.11 20 35
30-34 12.36 19 32
35-39 13.02 18 29
40-44 13.30 17 26
45-49 14.00 16 23
50-54 14.34 15 20

 

WOMEN
AGE 2.4 Km Run Press-ups Sit-ups
  (Mins) (No.) (No.)
15-16 14.59 10 32
17-29 14.30 10 32
30-34 14.55 9 29
35-39 15.21 8 26
40-44 15.58 7 23
45-49 16.32 6 20
50-54 17.06 5 17

See here for more information about the test and a training plan

 

There is then the Potential Regiment Officer Course (PROC) at RAF Honington.

The PROC is a three day course and includes the following:

  • Swim Test This assessment is to gauge current swimming ability. Those who cannot swim will be taught during training. 
  • RAF Regiment Applicant Selection Test (RAST)
  • 2 Km/1.25 mile run: PTI led 500m warm up to be completed within 5 mins. Followed by the 2km/1.25 mile individual best effort test. Candidates are to complete this test in 9:30 minutes or under. 
  • Medicine Ball Throw: Complete a throw of a Medicine Ball weighing 4kg, in a seated position, to a distance of 3.1m. Candidates are allowed 3 attempts only. The best scored is to be recorded. All throws count as an attempt- there are no practice throws. The test is complete once a candidate achieves 3.1m or uses all 3 attempts. Candidates will be graded Pass/Fail. 
  • Static Deadlift: A Mid-Thigh Pull (static deadlift) of 95 kg. Candidates are allowed 3 attempts at this test and the best score will be recorded. The first pull is a range finder/practice.
  • Interview.

These are the minimum standards required; candidates are expected to put maximum effort into each event.

To get ready for the fitness tests for the RAF Regt you can follow this fitness programme here. 

You can see what the PROC Course entails here.

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Candidates joining the RAF must be medically fully fit, both physically and psychologically, to meet the challenges of military service, during which they will be expected to deploy, potentially at short notice, to locations world-wide that are remote from established medical care. 

 

Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document. 

Before your application, please note that Body Mass Index Requirements are as follows: 

Age Male and female minimum Male and female maximum Male maximum with additional assessment Female maximum with additional assessment
18 + 18 30 32 32
16 to < 18 17 27 27 27

Calculate your BMI here 

 

Eyesight requirements vary for different roles. A requirement to wear glasses or contact lenses may be allowed for aircrew. 
 
If you are unsure about any health criteria, please continue your application and your eligibility will be assessed at the medical examination stage.  

 

During your application, the Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information. 

BACKGROUND CHECKS

YOU MUST:

  • Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
  • Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
  • Have a basic background check to get Security Check level clearance
DISQUALIFYING FACTORS

YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:

  • Have been or are a member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
  • Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
  • Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
  • Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive. 
    Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted). 
  • Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
  • Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt

Beard Policy: A revised facial hair policy has been agreed by the Air Force Board which will allow serving personnel to wear a smart, neatly-trimmed, full-set beard whilst maintaining high standards of appearance. The length of acceptable beards is between Grade 1 (2.5mm) and Grade 8 (25.5mm). The wearing of beards during Phase 1 and Phase 2 training is currently under consideration and details will be advised when available

Must be aged 18-54. Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 9 months in order to attest before 55th birthday. Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis.

Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application. 

EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

Have these minimum grades:

  GCSE pre-2017 GCSE 2017 and after Scottish National 5
English Language C Grade 4 C
Mathematics C Grade 4 C
Three other subjects C Grade 4 C

You must also have at least 2 A2 Levels/3 Highers at Grade C or above (excluding General Studies or Critical Thinking) which must total a minimum of 64 UCAS points.

Alternatively, if you hold a UK degree at Grade 2:2 or higher (or acceptable alternative) you only need Mathematics and English Language GCSEs at a minimum of Grade C (Grade 4-5) or SCE Standard Grades of 2 or SNE Grade 5 (A-C).

You can see what the RAF accepts in lieu of GCSEs & A Levels here.

NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY

Be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/other nationality.

Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application. However, candidates with a minimum of 3 years will be considered.

Commonwealth citizens require a minimum of 5 years residency in the UK prior to application.  

FITNESS REQUIREMENTS

You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively.

As part of the application process you will need to do the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT), which takes place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of the following:

  • 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline)
  • Achieve the required number of press-ups - within 60 seconds
  • Achieve the required number of sit-ups - within 60 seconds

How fit you need to be to pass this test can vary depending on role, age and gender. The requirements are listed on the charts below (Male and Female).

MEN
AGE 2.4 Km Run Press-ups Sit-ups
  (Mins) (No.) (No.)
15-16 12.39 20 35
17-29 12.11 20 35
30-34 12.36 19 32
35-39 13.02 18 29
40-44 13.30 17 26
45-49 14.00 16 23
50-54 14.34 15 20

 

WOMEN
AGE 2.4 Km Run Press-ups Sit-ups
  (Mins) (No.) (No.)
15-16 14.59 10 32
17-29 14.30 10 32
30-34 14.55 9 29
35-39 15.21 8 26
40-44 15.58 7 23
45-49 16.32 6 20
50-54 17.06 5 17

See here for more information about the test and a training plan

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Candidates joining the RAF must be medically fully fit, both physically and psychologically, to meet the challenges of military service, during which they will be expected to deploy, potentially at short notice, to locations world-wide that are remote from established medical care. 

 

Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document. 

Before your application, please note that Body Mass Index Requirements are as follows: 

Age Male and female minimum Male and female maximum Male maximum with additional assessment Female maximum with additional assessment
18 + 18 30 32 32
16 to < 18 17 27 27 27

Calculate your BMI here 

 

Eyesight requirements vary for different roles. A requirement to wear glasses or contact lenses may be allowed for aircrew. 
 
If you are unsure about any health criteria, please continue your application and your eligibility will be assessed at the medical examination stage.  

 

During your application, the Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information. 

BACKGROUND CHECKS

YOU MUST:

  • Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
  • Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
  • Have a basic background check to get Security Check level clearance
DISQUALIFYING FACTORS

YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:

  • Have been or are member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
  • Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
  • Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
  • Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive. 
    Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted). 
  • Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
  • Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt

Beard Policy: A revised facial hair policy has been agreed by the Air Force Board which will allow serving personnel to wear a smart, neatly-trimmed, full-set beard whilst maintaining high standards of appearance. The length of acceptable beards is between Grade 1 (2.5mm) and Grade 8 (25.5mm). The wearing of beards during Phase 1 and Phase 2 training is currently under consideration and details will be advised when available

If you don’t have any of the above, you might still be able to apply. For more information please contact us.

APPLY
NOW
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
RAF Regiment Officer leading RAF Gunners on exercise
APPLY
NOW
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
RAF Regiment Officer leading RAF Gunners on exercise