Army
AVIATION

MOS

15W

Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems (TUAS) Operator

Description

A Soldier in MOS 15W engages in operating and remotely piloting of the TUAS. Perform pre-flight, in-flight, post-flight checks and procedures. Conducts site selection, emplacement and deployment of the air vehicles and ground equipment of the TUAS. Participates in launch/recovery ground crew operations. Performs aircraft commander (AC) duties to include planning, analysis, and execution of reconnaissance and security missions in support of targeting and information collection. Operates, troubleshoots and performs limited unit-level maintenance on communication equipment, power sources, and wheeled vehicles.

Core Skills

  • UAS flight operations
  • Remote piloting and sensor operation
  • Mission planning and briefing
  • Geospatial analysis and map reading
  • Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) collection
  • Target acquisition and battle damage assessment
  • Pre-flight and post-flight inspection procedures
  • Ground control station operations
  • Radio communications and datalink management
  • Basic networking and IP-based system configuration
  • Troubleshooting electro-mechanical systems
  • Technical report writing and mission documentation
  • Risk management and safety procedures
  • Crew coordination and teamwork
  • Situational awareness and decision-making under pressure

Common Certifications

  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
  • OEM UAS Platform Certifications (as applicable)
  • OSHA 10-Hour General Industry (Aviation Safety)

Civilian Career Paths

  • UNMANNED SYSTEMS
  • GEOSPATIAL INTELLIGENCE
  • INTELLIGENCE ANALYSIS
  • AVIATION MANAGEMENT

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Data sourced from official Army publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.