Air Force AFSC · Intelligence
1A8X2 Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Operator
Overview
An Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Operator collects information about enemy strength, movements, and activity. The operator uses classified techniques and equipment to provide intelligence to command for mission planning and execution.
Minimum clearance: Top Secret
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Skill levels: 1A812 helper · 1A832 apprentice · 1A852 journeyman · 1A872 craftsman
Core Skills
- signals intelligence collection
- airborne ISR operations
- real-time intelligence analysis
- multi-INT fusion and reporting
- sensor operation and monitoring
- target identification and tracking
- mission planning and debriefing
- classified systems handling and COMSEC procedures
- threat assessment and situational awareness
- crew resource management and teamwork
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Amazon Web Services AWS software
- Apache Hadoop
- Apache Hive
- Apache Kafka
- Apache Spark
Civilian Career Paths
- Intelligence Analysis
- Geospatial Intelligence
- Signals Intelligence
Training & Development
Getting Started
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Intelligence Fundamentals Professional Certification (IFPC)
- Esri ArcGIS Pro Foundation Certification
Career Growth
- GEOINT Professional Certification Geospatial Analysis (GPC GA-II)
- Certified Remote Sensing Technologist (ASPRS)
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Also Common
- GEOINT Professional Certification Fundamentals (GPC-F)
What the Work Involves
- Validate known intelligence with data from other sources.
- Gather, analyze, correlate, or evaluate information from a variety of resources, such as law enforcement databases.
- Evaluate records of communications, such as telephone calls, to plot activity and determine the size and location of criminal groups and members.
- Gather intelligence information by field observation, confidential information sources, or public records.
- Analyze intelligence data to identify patterns and trends in criminal activity.
Related Occupations
- Digital Forensics Analysts
- Private Detectives and Investigators
- Information Security Analysts
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
Similar Specialties
G65A
MQ-4C Multi-Intelligence Mission Payload Operator (MPO)
Navy
AWO
Naval Aircrewman Operator
Navy
757E
MQ-4C Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Mission Payload Operator
Navy
2631
Electronic Intelligence/Electromagnetic Warfare Analyst
Marine Corps
IS
Intelligence Specialist
Coast Guard
1Z4X1
Special Reconnaissance
Air Force
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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