1U0X1 Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Sensor Operator

Overview of 1U0X1 – RPA Sensor Operator AFSC

RPA Sensor Operators (1U0X1) perform critical duties as mission crew members on Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). They employ airborne sensors in both manual and computer-assisted modes to acquire, track, and monitor airborne, maritime, and ground objects. Their roles ensure the effective application of airpower through the use of precision-guided munitions and surveillance capabilities.

Technical Training Details

  • Location: Lackland AFB and Randolph AFB
  • Duration: 31 Days
  • CCAF Degree: Air and Space Operations Technology

Professional Badge

  • Sensor Operator Badge

Demographic Information

  • Male: 942 (88.45%)
  • Female: 123 (11.55%)
  • Total Personnel: 1065

Entry Requirements

  • ASVAB: General score of 64 or Electrical score of 54
  • Physical: Ability to lift 40 lbs, normal color vision, Ground Based Aircraft Controller Physical.
  • Other: Flight experience beneficial but not required, routine access to Top Secret material.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Performs mission planning, preflight, in-flight, and post-flight duties.
  • Operates mission equipment, systems, and electronic protection (EP) equipment according to SPINS, ATO, and ROE.
  • Engages in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), Close Air Support (CAS), Combat Search and Recovery (CSAR), and more, utilizing Full Motion Video (FMV) and sensors.
  • Conducts immediate first phase Battle Damage Assessments (BDA).
  • Utilizes laser target marking systems for target identification and illumination.
  • Engages in launch and recovery operations, system diagnostics, and troubleshooting.

Specialty Qualifications

  • Knowledge: Fundamentals of airborne sensor systems, air weapons control, and delivery operations, as well as proficiency in active and passive sensor systems and armaments.
  • Education: High school completion is desirable.
  • Training: Completion of a Basic Sensor Operator Course is mandatory.
  • Experience: Progression through AFSC levels 1U031, 1U051, 1U071, and 1U091, with increasing responsibilities and expertise in managing RPA Sensor Operations.

Specialties (Shredouts)

  • RQ-4, MQ-1, MQ-9, MC-12, AC-130U, AC-130J, AC-130W, and CAA

RPA Sensor Operators play a pivotal role in modern airpower, providing critical surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strike capabilities. Their work directly supports combat operations and intelligence gathering, making them an indispensable part of the Air Force’s mission to maintain dominance in the air, space, and cyberspace.

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