Air Combat Systems Officer

Join to apply for the Air Combat Systems Officer role at Canadian Armed Forces | Forces armées canadiennes

As a member of the military, Air Combat Systems Officers plan, coordinate and direct the missions of aircraft and crew. They manage the operation of precision tactical navigation systems, sophisticated sensors, communication systems, electronic warfare equipment and weapon delivery systems.

• Direct and coordinate tactical activities of other units.
• Lead missions such as Search and Rescue, Anti‑Submarine Operations, Maritime Surface Surveillance and Targeting, Sovereignty and Fisheries Patrols, Counter‑Narcotics Operations, Air‑to‑Air Refueling, Humanitarian Relief, Combined Operations with Foreign Militaries, Electronic Warfare Training and Support, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations.

All pilots, aerospace controllers and Air Combat Systems Officers attend and complete the Aircrew Selection located in Trenton, Ontario. The 2‑day assessment uses computer‑based scenarios to validate required skills and aptitudes.

Work in operational flying units across Canada, deployed operations at airfields worldwide, support Navy from ships, formulate strategic and operational policies, and work in international headquarters.

• Direct Entry Options
• Paid Education Options

Applicants with a university degree may be placed into the required training program. The CAF funds bachelor degrees through the Royal Military College System as part of the Regular Officer Training Plan.

Basic officer training: 12 weeks covering military knowledge, leadership, regulations, weapons handling, first aid, and physical fitness.

Additional language training and survival courses:
Aeromedical Training, Basic Survival Evasion Resistance Escape, Air Operations Sea Survival.

Professional training: meteorology, navigation, guidance and control systems, electronics, communications, tactical employment of aircraft, weapons systems. Qualification as crew members on specific aircraft types, e.g., Long Range Patrol, Maritime Helicopter, Search and Rescue, Electronic Warfare, Air‑to‑Air Refueling, Unmanned Air Vehicle, Instructional Techniques.

Available through the Reserve Force. Reservists train with a home unit, may volunteer for deployment, and can pursue individual learning plans for university degrees with tuition reimbursement.

• Aerospace Control Officer
• Pilot
• Aerospace Control Operator