The upkeep of advanced weapons systems is vital to the operation of the Air Force. This makes the Aircraft Armament Technician role absolutely critical. It’s a team of unique, proud and dedicated people that are responsible for handling and maintaining some of the world’s most technologically advanced weapons and aircraft systems, working with explosives and operating aircraft targeting facilities.
What you’ll do
The Armament trade is responsible for handling and maintaining armament systems, ejection seat systems, air-launched munitions and associated equipment. Working with the world’s most advanced weaponised aircraft, including the F/A-18F Super Hornet, E/A-18 Growler, and F-35A Lightning II, you’ll maintain aircraft weapon systems which are a combination of electronic, electrical and mechanical components. You’ll also prepare and load various air-launched munitions.
Your day-to-day tasks could include:
1. Aircraft launch and recovery duties
2. Maintenance and testing of aircraft armament systems – from computers to missile launcher racks
3. Inspection, removal and installation of aircraft components
4. Working with explosives (Explosive Ordnance)
5. Fault diagnostics
6. Preparing, loading and downloading missiles, bombs and torpedoes to/from aircraft
7. Preparation and use of aircraft support equipment
As you progress, your future tasks could include:
Special Training - Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) functions:
8. Air Weapons Range clearances
9. Bulk Explosive Ordnance (EO) disposal tasks
10. Improvised Explosive Device Disposal (IEDD)
11. Demolition of Explosives Operations
You may also be involved in instructional and management duties.
Training and Career progression
We’ll provide you with all of the training and knowledge you need to kickstart your career in this role during your Initial Employment Training (IET). You’ll receive a nationally recognised qualification and be paid to do it. Plus, there’s plenty of opportunity to develop in this specialised career.
With further training provided by the Air Force, you’ll have the opportunity to become a qualified Demolition of Explosives Operator where you safely dispose of unexploded or malfunctioned weapons/munitions and pyrotechnics. Demolition Operators can also take on more specialised training in Improvised Explosive Device Disposal and Explosive Ordnance Disposal.
Additional Information
This is no ordinary technician role. You’ll become an integral part of the Air Force, working with the world’s leading aircraft and state-of-the-art weapon systems as you help protect our country. That’s not something you’d find in everyday civilian life.
During your career you may also have opportunities to work on aircraft belonging to the Navy and Army.
The duties of Aircraft Armament Technicians are critical to the operational effectiveness of the Air Force, performing an important role in exercising skill, judgement and a high standard of workmanship to ensure continued integrity of armament systems and equipment.
If you’re good with your hands, enjoy mechanical/electrical hobbies, work well in a team and are naturally curious, you’ll go far in this highly rewarding and specialised career that’s integral to the Air Force. We’ll provide the training, you just need to bring your ambition.
In-service Information
In the Air Force this role is known as Aircraft Armament Technician (ARMTECH).