Get your Combat control ASVAB Score
Becoming a Combat Control Expert in the US Air Force is a challenging and rewarding career path for those who are driven, mentally and physically tough, and have a passion for pushing themselves to their limits. As a Combat Control Expert, you will be responsible for ensuring the success of special operations missions by providing air traffic control, close air support, and other crucial services. However, the path to becoming a Combat Control Expert is not for the faint of heart, and requires a rigorous training program that tests both your physical and mental abilities. In this article, we will explore the steps you need to take to become a Combat Control Expert in the US Air Force.?
What is Combat control in the Air Force?
A Combat Controller in the US Air Force is responsible for providing air traffic control, ground control, and command and control communications in austere and hostile environments. They are trained to deploy into combat zones to establish air control and coordinate with air support to ensure mission success. Combat Controllers are also proficient in small arms and can provide ground tactical support to special operations forces.
Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) - Combat control
The code for a Combat control - Air Force Specialty Code: 1C2X1
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ASVAB Qualification Area Minimum Scores
Getting a military role requires meeting a certain minimum Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test score. Combat control US Air Force - Qualification Area Minimum Scores - M55 & G55
Air Force Qualification Area and corresponding ASVAB Subtests:
G -- general: Verbal expression (WK plus PC) and arithmetic reasoning (AR)
M -- mechanical: Mechanical comprehension (MC), general science (GS) and two times auto and shop information (AS)
A -- administrative: Numerical operations (NO), coding speed (CS) and verbal expression (WK plus PC)
E -- electrical: Arithmetic reasoning (AR), mathematics knowledge (MK), electronics information (EI) and general science (GS)
Requirements to get a Combat control US Air Force position
To apply for a Combat Control (CCT) role in the US Air Force, follow these steps:
1. Meet the eligibility criteria: Must be a US citizen, between 17-39 years of age, pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) and Physical Ability and Stamina Test (PAST).
2. Enlist in the Air Force: Contact a recruiter or apply online at the Air Force careers website.
3. Attend Basic Military Training (BMT): This is a basic training program that lasts for 8.5 weeks and takes place at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.
4. Complete Special Warfare Preparatory Course (SW Prep): This is an 8-week course at Lackland Air Force Base that prepares candidates for Special Warfare Assessment and Selection (SWAS).
5. Attend Special Warfare Assessment and Selection (SWAS): This is a 4-week course in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where candidates are evaluated on their physical and mental capabilities.
6. Complete the Combat Control (CCT) pipeline: This is an intensive 12-15 month process that includes various training courses such as Airborne School, Combat Dive School, and Military Freefall School.
7. Graduation: Upon successful completion of the CCT pipeline, candidates will graduate as Combat Controllers and be assigned to a special operations unit.
It's important to note that the selection process for becoming a Combat Controller is highly competitive, and requires a high level of physical fitness, mental toughness, and dedication.
Key skills and competencies
Useful skills and competencies required for this role include high levels of physical fitness, mental toughness, and the ability to think calmly under pressure. Combat controllers must possess exceptional communication skills, teamwork abilities, and be able to work independently. They must also be skilled in navigation, survival tactics, and possess a deep understanding of the principles of flight.
Equipment and weapons used by a Combat control
Combat controllers use a variety of equipment and weapons to perform their duties. These may include radios, satellite communication systems, global positioning systems, and various firearms. Combat controllers must be highly proficient in using this equipment and be able to operate them effectively in a range of conditions and situations.
How long does it take to become a Combat control in the US Air Force
Becoming a combat controller in the US Air Force is a rigorous process that can take up to two years. This includes completing basic training, technical training, and specialized combat control training. Candidates must meet strict physical fitness and aptitude requirements, pass an intensive selection process, and complete a range of specialized training courses. Once training is complete, they may be deployed anywhere in the world to perform their duties as combat controllers.