Flight Squadron Commander

POSITION TITLE: OPEN DATE: CLOSE DATE:

UNIT OF ACTIVITY/DUTY LOCATION: GRADE REQUIREMENT:
Min: Max:

SELECTING SUPERVISOR:

AREAS OF CONSIDERATION

INITIAL ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

MAJOR DUTIES

Fighter Squadron Commander

45-AF-25

Position Number

Please refer to attached pages for more info on the major duties and initial qualifications for this position for this AFSC or go to:
https://www.my.af.mil to review the AFECD or AFOCD

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

DAFOCD, 31 Oct 24

36

AFSC 11F4*, Staff
AFSC 11F3*, Flight Lead
AFSC 11F2*, Wingman
AFSC 11F1*, Entry/Student

FIGHTER PILOT

(Changed 30 Apr 23)

1. Specialty Summary. Pilots fighter aircraft and commands crews to accomplish combat, training, and other missions. Related DoD
Occupational Group: 220100.

2. Duties and Responsibilities:
2.1. Plans and prepares for mission. Reviews mission tasking, intelligence, and weather information. Supervises mission planning,
preparation and filing of flight plan, and crew briefing. Ensures aircraft is preflighted, inspected, loaded, equipped, and manned for
mission.
2.2. Pilots aircraft and commands crew. Operates aircraft controls and equipment. Performs, supervises, or directs navigation, in-flight
refueling (except Q Suffix, IFF (AT-38/T-38C)), and weapons delivery.
2.3. Conducts or supervises training of crewmembers. Ensures operational readiness of crew by conducting or supervising mission
specific training.
2.4. Develops plans and policies, monitors operations, and advises commanders. Assists commanders and performs staff functions
related to this specialty.

3. Specialty Qualifications:
3.1. Knowledge. Knowledge is mandatory of theory of flight, air navigation, meteorology, flying directives, aircraft operating
procedures, and mission tactics.
3.2. Education. For entry into this specialty, an undergraduate degree specializing in physical sciences, mathematics, administration, or
management is desirable.
3.3. Training. The following training is mandatory as indicated:
3.3.1. For entry into this specialty, completion of Air Force Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training (SUPT).
3.3.2. For award of AFSC 11F3X, completion of transition and operational training in the suffix specific aircraft.
3.4. Experience. For upgrade to AFSCs 11F3X, unit commander determines proficiency based on performance, experience, and
completion of minimum training requirements.
3.5. Other. The following are mandatory as indicated:
3.5.1. For award and retention of this AFSC, current aeronautical rating and qualification for aviation service as pilot.
3.5.2. For award of AFSC 11F2X, certification of wingman qualification by appropriate operations authority.
3.5.3. For award of AFSC 11F3X, certification of flight lead qualification by appropriate operations authority.
3.5.4. Specialty requires routine access to Tier 5 (T5) information, systems or similar classified environments (except Q Suffix). For
award and retention of AFSCs 11FXX, completion of a current T5 Investigation IAW DoDM 5200.02_AFMAN 16-1405, Air Force
Personnel Security Program. (Desirable for Q Suffix).
NOTE: Award of the entry level without a completed T5 Investigation is authorized provided an interim Top Secret security clearance has
been granted according to DoDM 5200.02_AFMAN 16 -1405.

4. *Specialty Shredouts:

Suffix Portion of AFS to Which Related Suffix Portion of AFS to Which Related

B A-10 N F-35

F F-15 Q IFF (AT-38/T-38C)

G F-15E U Air Liaison Officer (ALO)

H F-16 Y General

J F-22 Z Other

Duties and Responsibilities: The Fighter Squadron Commander for an F-16 unit is
responsible for the overall leadership, operational readiness, and performance of the
squadron. The CC leads and mentors a team of pilots, maintainers, and support personnel,
ensuring high standards of performance, discipline, and readiness for both peacetime
training and wartime operations. They oversee mission planning, execution, and

also manages pilot and aircre
promoting professional development.

In addition, the CC ensures the squadron’s F-16 aircraft are properly maintained and
operational, working closely with maintenance teams to resolve technical issues. They

ent. The
CC also represents the squadron in coordination with higher command and external
agencies, aligning operations with broader strategic goals. They are responsible for
managing personnel, including evaluations, promotions, and career development, and
ensuring compliance with military regulations.

This position requires extensive leadership experience, particularly in tactical operations,
and a strong understanding of F-16 systems and air combat tactics. The CC must be an

ution, and
team leadership. Flexibility, excellent decision-making under pressure, and the ability to
lead a diverse team are essential for success in this demanding role.