EP-3 Rag question

[Ajay]

Hi. I am currently at VT-4 at NAS Pensacola and we are heading into selections. I am hoping for the EP-3. Just a couple questions... What is the FRS process for the EP-3? I know we go to Jax for NATOPs but have gotten mixed gouge regarding how long that lasts and if the FRS is there or Whidbey. Anyone with any recent experience that can shed some light on time frame at Jax with the EP-3? Is it an accompanied PCS?

Thank You.

 

[CommodoreMid]

Not an EP-3 type (though I work in the same building as VP-30) but unless things have drastically changed recently it's an accompanied PCS to Jax. 6-7 month-ish syllabus.

 

[Brett327]

Any reason you're hoping to select a community that's being disestablished soon?

 

[Ajay]

Thanks for the info on Jax CommodoreMid

That was my next question Brett, again mixed gouge, does anyone have any idea when this platform will be sundowned? I've heard everything from 2-10 years, from my instructors. I like the mission of the EP-3 and the guarantee of Whidbey is a nice selling point for us.

 

[xj220]

So last I heard, there's no actual replacement for the EP-3. There have been some ideas touted though and I think the lead version will be an ELINT Triton. Those hoping for an EP-8 probably shouldn't get their hopes up, but never say never.

 

[Ajay]

I have heard the same about the Triton. I've been told that cross training to the P-8 is an option if the EP-3 goes away sooner than expected. Not sure about that though either.

 

[cfam]

You could also guarantee yourself Whidbey by selecting Growlers. While you won't get the same mission set, you will still do some signals nerdery, plus you have guaranteed job security.

 

[SynixMan]

Can an NFO "operate" a Triton, or does it need an actual 1310 to operate?

 

[Flash]

So last I heard, there's no actual replacement for the EP-3. There have been some ideas touted though and I think the lead version will be an ELINT Triton...

There is no replacement for the EP-3 planned or likely, and by no means is whatever they have planned for the Triton a 'replacement' even for a fraction of what the EP-3 does.

 

[Ajay]

Cfam- Growlers are awesome, however I was selected for NPR Big Wing, so unfortunately it's not an option.

 

[Swanee]

Can an NFO "operate" a Triton, or does it need an actual 1310 to operate?

Yes, NFOs can work the robotic wizardry. FWIW both NAs and NFO exceed the flight training requirements to be UAV aircraft commanders.