RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
Twelve Air Force Combat Systems Officers and four Naval Flight Officers received their wings during a combat systems officer graduation March 21.
During the combat systems officer course, which begins at the 562nd Flying Training Squadron, students learn fundamental, system and intermediate navigation. Air Force and Navy students spend about 12 months in training, including a Pensacola course for the Navy and Introductory Flight School for the Air Force.
Navy and Air Force students spend 90 days in the primary phase, learning the basics. They become masters of chart construction, radio aid and RADAR navigation and dead reckoning.
During the intermediate phase, students integrate these systems in a high-level environment scenario. These scenarios provide realistic training mimicking air refueling, over-water operations and joint-warfare principles. After the intermediate phase, students elect to either continue in advanced navigation at the 562nd FTS or do advanced electronic warfare officer training at the 563rd FTS.
Advanced navigation students learn how to operate in a low-level environment. Advanced timing, target drops, threat reaction and airborne radar approaches round out the curriculum.
Advanced Electronic Warfare Officer students master advanced employment and planning of electronic warfare and weapons in a state-of-the-art simulator which emulates real-world tactic environments for reconnaissance, bomber and fighter training missions.