Follow-On Qualifications

After a pilot has completed training and joined the squadron as a line pilot they are encouraged to purse follow-on qualifications and choose additional pathways to continue their development. These pathways include:

Operational Upgrades

Instructor Pilot (IP) – IP’s are responsible for the training of vCSG-3 pilots from IQT to FMQ.

Landing Signal Officer (LSO) – LSO’s are tasked with ensuring the safe recovery of naval aviators back aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt in all sea states and weather conditions.

Aggressor Pilot (AP) – AP’s are well versed in enemy tactics and techniques. Having this information, AP’s ensure that vCSG-3 aviators remain lethal in the air-to-air arena through beyond visual range and within visual range tactics, techniques and procedures.

Tactical Upgrades

Joint Terminal Attack Controller – JTAC’s are ground-based controllers who direct action of combat aircraft in support of close air support or other offensive air operations.

Forward Air Controller (Airborne) – FAC(A)’s are air-based controllers who direct action of combat aircraft in support of close air support or other offensive air operations.
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Element/Section Lead – An element/section lead is qualified to lead two combat configured aircraft into a mission environment.

Flight/Division Lead – A flight/division leads are qualified to lead a flight of four combat configured aircraft into a mission environment.

Package Commander – These aviators are qualified to lead a package, i.e. strike, fighter, etc into a combat mission environment.

Mission Commander – MC’s are tasked with developing and organizing a combat mission.