The Life of a Bombardier
Training to be a Bombardier
Becoming a bombardier in the military takes rigorous training and an unwavering commitment to duty. A bombardier is responsible for operating precision guided munitions (PGMs) and unguided munitions to deliver weapons on target. To begin the journey towards becoming a bombardier, one must first enlist in the military and attend the appropriate training programs. The first step towards becoming a bombardier is completing Basic Combat Training (BCT). During BCT, soldiers learn basic military skills, physical training, and weapons handling. After completing BCT, the soldier will attend the Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for their specific military occupational specialty (MOS). For bombardiers, AIT will cover the theory and use of PGMs and unguided munitions. Once AIT is completed, bombardiers will move on to their unit where they will continue to train and hone their skills. They will attend different courses throughout their career to stay up to date on emerging technologies and techniques for using PGMs and unguided munitions.The Role of a Bombardier on the Battlefield
The role of a bombardier is crucial on the battlefield. Bombardiers are responsible for delivering weapons on target and ensuring that their mission is successful. They must have a deep knowledge of the weapons they are using, as well as the surrounding terrain. The bombardier’s primary weapon is the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM). The JDAM is a PGM that uses GPS coordinates to guide the munitions to its target. The bombardier is responsible for inputting the correct coordinates and ensuring that the weapon will hit its intended target. In addition to the JDAM, bombardiers also use unguided munitions, such as the general purpose bomb and the cluster bomb. These weapons require the bombardier to be knowledgeable of the weapon’s blast radius and to take into account any nearby civilian populations. The bombardier also plays a critical role in providing situational awareness to their superior officers. They must communicate with ground troops and other air assets to ensure that the right targets are being engaged and that there are no friendly fire incidents.Life as a Bombardier
Life as a bombardier can be both exciting and challenging. Bombardiers are often deployed to combat zones and spend months away from their families. They work long hours and are required to maintain a high level of physical fitness. However, bombardiers also get to operate some of the most advanced weaponry that a military has to offer. They are part of a close-knit community that works together to accomplish the mission. Bombardiers also have a deep sense of pride in their role within the military, knowing that they are an essential part of protecting their country. In conclusion, becoming a bombardier takes dedication and commitment. Bombardiers play a vital role in delivering weapons on target and ensuring that their missions are successful. They are part of a select group of individuals who operate some of the most advanced weaponry in the world. While life as a bombardier can be challenging, it is also rewarding and filled with a deep sense of pride.
