Which military branch is typically responsible for flying jets?

I've always dreamed of flying military jets and wanted to know which branch I should aim for to make this dream a reality. I know not just anyone can become a pilot, so are there specific qualifications that I should be working towards right now to increase my chances when I apply?

The United States Air Force and the Navy are the two branches of the U.S. military that are most widely known for operating fighter jets. For those interested in being fighter pilots, enlisting in either of these branches would be the best route.

The US Air Force flies a variety of aircraft, including fighters like the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II, among others. The Navy, on the other hand, is known for its carrier-based aircraft like the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and the F-35C Lightning II.

There are a few steps you should take to become a pilot in the military. Note that the process is fairly competitive and can take several years:

1. Academics: The first step towards becoming a military pilot is securing a strong academic foundation. You should aim to excel in high school, particularly in math, science, and English classes, as the military values these skills in their potential pilots.

2. Physical Fitness: Aircraft pilots need to be in excellent physical condition. You should work to maintain consistent physical fitness, even now. The military will require you to pass a stringent physical examination.

3. Bachelor’s Degree: Requirements vary by branch, but generally, to become a pilot, candidates need to have a bachelor’s degree. You don't necessarily have to major in aviation or a related field, though those could certainly be beneficial.

4. Officer Training School (OTS): After obtaining your degree, you would then need to attend Officer Training School (OTS). This is a comprehensive program that includes classroom instruction and physical training.

5. Flight Training: Upon completion of OTS, you would then attend flight training, which includes both classroom study and time in various flight simulators and aircraft.

Remember that each branch of the military may have slightly different requirements, so it might be a good idea to reach out to a recruiter to discuss your specific circumstances and interest in becoming a military jet pilot.

Finally, it's worth mentioning that you'll need to have very good eyesight to qualify to be a pilot, but don't worry if you don't have perfect vision. As long as your eyesight can be corrected to 20/20 with glasses or contacts, you'll still be eligible in most cases.