What's the process to become a military jet pilot assistant?

I'm fascinated by military aviation and thinking about becoming a jet pilot assistant. Can someone explain what this job involves and the path I need to take to get there?

The position you're referring to is typically known as a Flight Officer or Weapons Systems Officer (WSO), depending on the branch of military service you're interested in. They assist pilots and copilots in operating the aircraft and its systems; they have a key role in navigation, monitoring the systems that control the aircraft, and managing weaponry in military aircraft.

To become a Flight Officer or WSO, here's a general path you might consider:

1. Education: To qualify for these roles, you typically need a bachelor's degree. The degree does not have to be in a particular field, but programs in aviation, physics, engineering, or mathematics could provide useful foundational knowledge.

2. Join the Military: To become a jet pilot assistant, you'd need to join a branch of the military. This usually involves talking to a recruiter, passing a physical fitness test, going through medical examinations, and completing paperwork. After this, you'll attend basic training.

3. Officer Training: You'll most likely participate in Officer Training School (OTS) or Officer Candidate School (OCS), since flight officers are generally officers, not enlisted members.

4. Flight Training: Following officer training, you would then attend flight school or Undergraduate Navigator Training (UNT). The specific training program can vary depending on the branch of the military you join.

5. Gain Experience: After successful completion of training, you'll begin your career as a WSO or Flight Officer. With experience, more opportunities may open up, such as promotions or specialized roles.

Remember that the path and requirements can vary by branch and the specific aircraft. It's also important to consider that roles in aviation require a particular level of physical fitness and health, and you must pass regular, mandatory flight physicals to ensure you're fit for the job. The age for joining can also vary.

While this represents a typical path, reaching out to recruiters or see a career counselor at your school might be helpful. They can provide personalized advice and guidance to better prepare you for the whole process. All in all, beginning a career in military aviation is challenging but rewarding, if you're passionate about it. Good luck!