[Keebler]

Derek, I can’t speak to the exact process, but it’s my understanding that the Air Force occasionally offers Growler slots out of UPT.

The pilots go straight to NAS Whidbey Island, WA to go through the Growler Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS, the Navy version of the USAF FTU) and then do an operational tour in a Navy Growler squadron. They typically will be assigned to one of the five expeditionary (land-based) Growler squadrons to avoid having to send them through the carrier qualification syllabus.

Following their operational tour, those pilots then return back to the Air Force, most commonly to a community that can leverage their electronic warfare expertise. I’ve seen previous folks go to the F-22 and F-35 communities, but I don’t think that’s a guarantee.

Of note, there is an Air Force squadron at Whidbey Island (the 390th Electronic Combat Squadron) whose sole purpose is to manage the exchange aircrew. As an exchange officer, you’ll therefore have an Air Force support structure, and technically report to two commanders, your Navy squadron commanding officer and the CO of the 390th.

You didn’t ask, but there are also Growler exchanges on the CSO side of the house as well, although most (if not all) CSOs come to the Growler after an operational tour in an Air Force platform. CSOs have been assigned to both expeditionary and carrier based squadrons in the past.

• This reply was modified 1 month, 2 weeks ago by  Keebler.
• This reply was modified 1 month, 2 weeks ago by  Keebler.

[Keebler]

@SLAP and company, thanks for hosting an awesome site! I’m a Navy Prowler ECMO/Growler EWO (Growler patch) currently doing a FAO tour and exploring my options to continue flying in the ANG. I’m a senior O-4, so a bit long in the tooth, but excited about figuring out what options are available to me in the Guard. I’m also happy to help field any Naval Aviation questions that come up. Thanks again gents!

Cheers,
Keebler

[Keebler]

Hey gents, out of curiosity, who was your POC for hiring at the 185th? I’m a Navy NFO looking into a possible transition to CSO. Thanks!

• This reply was modified 11 months ago by  Keebler.