ARMY AIR CORPS SOLDIER (GROUNDCREW)

The Job

AAC Groundcrew soldiers are responsible for supporting Apache and Lynx helicopters. This includes preparing aircraft for missions, communicating between command posts and handling supplies, spares and ammunition. On operations, groundcrew are part of the team defending forward base locations. They might also be trained to drive a fuel vehicle or supply vehicle.

The Right Job For Me?

To be an AAC groundcrew member, you will need to be able to work as part of a team. You will need to be quick-thinking, motivated, flexible and practical. You will have to work outside in all weather conditions and be physically fit.

What Skills Will I Learn?

Everyone who works with the Territorial AAC learns one or more of the following:Dismounted close-combat skillsRearming, refuelling and handling Apache and Lynx helicoptersCommand Post Operator, Communications Operator and DriverAircraft Mission Planning Station OperatorLogistics Specialist – responsible for moving or accounting for spares, ammunition and supplies

What Training Will I Do?

Initial trainingAn AAC career begins with four training evenings at a TA Centre completing the necessary briefings, paperwork, medicals and attestation. This is followed by six weekends over six months learning the basics of soldiering, and a two-week recruit course at an Army Training Centre to pass out as a trained soldier.Further trainingAfter initial training, recruits join their squadron and begin training in their chosen AAC trade. To qualify for their annual bonus, all Territorial soldiers are required to pass mandatory core training tests. Initial AAC trade training takes place within recruits’ own TA Centres or at Wattisham Airfield in Suffolk. A two-week training course is also completed at the School of Army Aviation, Middle Wallop, Hampshire, or another training establishment. Other AAC trades are:MedicChefClerkStores SpecialistMost Territorial soldiers hold down a full-time civilian job, and training is scheduled to recognise this. It takes place one night a week and, on average, one weekend a month. Soldiers are expected to attend a minimum of 27 days a year, including one continuous 15-day period, to qualify for their tax-free annual bonus. Training takes place at local TA Centres. The AAC has centres at Norwich, Swaffham and Bury St Edmunds. Members of the Corps have recently trained in Belgium, Cyprus, Gibraltar, Germany, Poland and the USA.

What Qualifications Could I Get?

Recruits can start as a groundcrewman working in an Apache rearming and refuelling team, then progress onto driving a refuelling vehicle, gaining a Cat C+E licence.

Future Prospects

Following promotion, it is possible to become the leader of a small team responsible for an arming point, or take on an important role in the Command Post. Territorial units offer teamwork and friendship among a group of people with shared goals and aspirations. As well as regular camps and expeditions, there are many chances to socialise with colleagues, take part in sport and occasionally travel abroad. Recruits should join with an expectation of being asked to deploy for a six-month operational tour once every five years. Legislation and support is available to help employers during this absence, and welfare support is provided for families.