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Interservice Transfer for U-2

HuggyU2

Well-Known Member
None
I would think/hope with the supposed Air Force "pilot shortage", AFPC would be more accommodating for IST selection? My understanding was that as long as you passed the interview at Beale, AFPC would usually grant the IST. Is that no longer the case?
That is probably the case,... yes.

However, I expect BEALE to be more stringent on IST applications. Just my opinion.

BTW... "supposed" AF pilot shortage? Is there a question that pilots are leaving the military?

Is FOSx2 a big problem for transfer to ANG or AF Reserve flying or RPA gigs? I assume it is on a case by case / unit by unit basis, and the RPA folks will take anyone who applies that wears wings.

Couldn't tell you. This is a thread on on U-2 IST's, not ANG/USAFR/RPA IST's.
 

HuggyU2

Well-Known Member
None
I'll be at Beale this week. If you have a specific question you'd like me to ask the U-2 Recruuting branch, let me know. I'll be happy to ask and get back to you.
 

HuggyU2

Well-Known Member
None
The U-2 IST program has been around about 20 years, and it seems to alternate on whether it is the AF or the Navy that is creating the problems in making it happen. Lately, it's been the AF. However, after speaking to the Recruiting folks, it looks like there has been a positive change in the process. It will still be painful, no doubt... but the AF Personnel Center has changed their policy to speed the process up somewhat.

Again, for the best info, call the U-2 Recruiting Branch in the 1st Recon Squadron at Beale AFB. DSN 368-4447.
 

pelexecute

Active Member
pilot
None
I was thinking about starting the application process, but then I read this article saying the U-2 was going to start to be phased out in 2018. What does this mean for the guys that would be dropping an application in the next year or so?

http://www.latimes.com/nation/great-reads/la-na-c1-spy-plane-pilot-20150826-story.html

That article is a couple of years old. U-2 is getting money pumped into it again, with no end in sight. We're busier now than ever before. The most pessimistic prediction is now around 2025 to even start a phase-out, which would take years in itself. Oh, and that's yours truly narrating the video--I know, cool story, brah.
 
I'm a long way off, but curious if anyone in the community knows whether you have to finish your commitment to the Navy before you can do a IST for the U-2 program?
 

HuggyU2

Well-Known Member
None
Call DSN 368-4447 and ask the question.

edit: seeing as you're an SNA, there is zero chance the Navy will let you go anytime in the next few years.
And the U-2 Program will not consider you until you have at least a tour of flying experience.
 
Thank you. That's why I said I'm a long way off. Wasn't sure if it was something I could apply to after my JO tour or if I'd have to wait the full 8 years. Just trying to get an idea if it's something I could ever do.

P.S. Ken/Yak says hello
 

SynixMan

HKG Based Artificial Excrement Pilot
pilot
Contributor
Whatever the answer is today, it will be different in 2026 when your contract is up.
 

nittany03

Recovering NFO. Herder of Programmers.
pilot
None
Super Moderator
Contributor
Minor threadjack - just noticed this AF public affairs photo in Wikipedia. That's . . . an interesting alternative to a kneeboard card.
U2_Cockpit_3.jpg
 
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