Navy Officer Subspecialty · Aviation
5403 Test Pilot
Current service use not established
This code is listed in the directory. Inclusion alone does not confirm current service use.
An officer subspecialty earned alongside a primary designator, marking advanced education or experience in this field.
Overview
Test pilots conduct structured flight evaluations of aircraft performance, handling qualities, systems operation, and safety. They work with engineering teams to plan test points, manage flight risk, analyze results, and validate aircraft changes.
Notes & Sources
- NOOCS Part B (Edition 96, Jul 2026) lists subspecialty 5403 “Naval Test Pilot” in its officer subspecialty table; the row carries the code title with its subspecialty manager/curriculum references only.
- The Navy source at code level contains no duty, training, or clearance prose: it identifies and indexes the subspecialty, so occupation-specific skills, career paths, and credential recommendations are not published here; a holder’s duties depend on their designator, billet, and qualification.
Evidence for this guidance (1 document)
- NAVPERS 15839I Vol I Part B · Subspecialty (SSP) Codes (NOOCS Edition 96, Jul 2026)
[1] Part B subspecialty table, block 5403, cached text line 556
Supports: Specialty definition
Source review recorded September 24, 2026.
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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