Recruitment
Joining Application below.
Info before you Join
If you are thinking of joining JSW, that's great news; we welcome everyone who wants in. However, note that we operate trimmed-down British military operating procedures (unclassified) taught to us by both current and ex-military pilots. The training will be given to you in a manageable workload and tailored to each individual, depending on current experience. We ask that the educational effort given to you by those on JSW is not taken for granted, no one is getting paid. In short, focus on the mindset of a professional military fast jet pilot rather than an extra in TopGun 2. We focus on discipline and teamwork here, the satisfaction is worth it when meticulous planning materialises into a well-executed mission via the team's synchronisation that previous months/years of training have developed.
Upon joining Joint Strike Wing, you will join one of two different training units depending on your path. Fixed-wing cadets will join 4SQN BFT (Basic Flying Training) on the Hawk T45 mod and Rotary cadets will join 656's initial training pipeline. 4 SQN cadets will graduate to their chosen teams after approximately 6-8 sorties on average.
Why start on the T45 on 4 SQN?
In a simple yet effective aircraft, the slower pace allows you more time to think, accompanied by basic instruments that force you to learn the principles first, without the help of advanced jet tech. The T45 Hawk also allows the instructors to view your flight from the back seat with a HUD repeater, checking and helping where needed. The instructors can also take control of the aircraft to aid with demonstrations and more.
What we look for in training
We do not chop students if they struggle through either training unit, if you need extra training then we will be happy to help. Though the instructors will equip you with the knowledge needed, JSW will be looking for the return effort from our newest potential members. Lots of time is invested by our instructors in training new pilots, regardless of skill. It is painful to see when their trainees do not honour it.Â
A good piece of advice is to complete the initial training quickly. The longer you postpone training between sorties, the more you will forget which will leave you lost in future sorties.
Don't worry if you feel behind at stages, put your best foot forward.
The instructors are there to help.
Most important of all... Have fun with it, it's why we are here!