Military Careers involving Flying Drones?

Okay, so I'm a junior with a huge interest in drones, especially the ones that fly. Some members of my family served in various branches of the military and told me that there might be room for my love for drones there. Can anyone suggest which branches of the military would allow me to work with flying drones?

It's fantastic that you're combining your interests with potential career opportunities. In the military, the individuals who operate unpiloted aircraft (commonly referred to as drones) are known as Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Operators.

Each branch does have opportunities for working with drones, but the nature of the work and the specifics of the roles can vary.

1. Air Force: This is perhaps the most evident branch when considering a career involving drones, as they have an extensive drone program. The MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper drones, often used for surveillance and assault missions, are operated by the Air Force. Air Force UAS Operators go through extensive training to manage both the distinctive challenges of flight and the strategic demands of their missions.

2. Army: The Army also uses drones extensively for reconnaissance and surveillance missions. They work with a wide range of drones, from hand-thrown Ravens to the larger Shadow and Gray Eagle models. Army UAS Operators often work close to the front lines, providing real-time data to support ground troops.

3. Navy: The Navy uses drones for both intelligence, surveillance/reconnaissance, and combat roles. They operate a variety of drone systems, including the MQ-4C Triton for surveillance and the MQ-8 Fire Scout, which is a drone helicopter.

4. Marines: The drone usage in the Marines is primarily for reconnaissance and surveillance. They employ the RQ-21A Blackjack, among other systems, which can be launched from land or a ship.

5. Space Force: While space force is the newest branch and might not immediately come to mind when considering drone operation, they are responsible for many satellite-based operations, and their roles are expanding.

Each branch will have specific requirements and training for these roles, so you may want to look more into the branch that aligns more with your vision for your military career. Keep in mind that operating drones in the military incorporates more than just the technical aspect of flight; it also often includes strategic planning, real-time problem-solving, and significant responsibility.