Aviation Combat Roles

Air Intelligence Officers serve as the intelligence functional experts at all command levels of the Marine Aircraft Wing. They develop and execute intelligence plans, policies, and procedures that facilitate operations across the six functions of Marine aviation. They advise commanders, staffs, and pilots on intelligence activities, operations, and actions, provide intelligence products to support mission planning and execution, and support the overall intelligence effort of the parent command or intelligence authority.

Air Traffic Control Officers serve as watch commanders or detachment commanders at an expeditionary ATC detachment. They act as Facility Watch Officers or officers-in-charge at garrison ATC facilities and may serve as Command Airspace Liaison Officers.

Unmanned Aircraft System MAGTF Electronic Warfare Officers employ a network-enabled and digitally interoperable UAS, from a Ground Control Station, to provide aviation fires and support across the full spectrum of combat operations.

F-35B pilots fly the Marine Corps’ advanced multi-role strike fighter. Fifth-generation capabilities integrate stealth, sensors, and networked warfare to support Marines on the ground and across the MAGTF.

MV-22 tilt-rotor pilots combine transport capability with fixed-wing speed and range. They conduct assault support missions that extend expeditionary reach for the MAGTF.

Attack helicopter pilots provide close air support and escort for ground forces, employing precision fires to destroy enemy targets in support of Marines on the battlefield.

Utility helicopter pilots transport personnel and equipment, provide command and control, and support assault operations as essential enablers for maneuver across the battlespace.

CH-53 pilots lead heavy-lift crews that transport Marines, equipment, and supplies in support of the MAGTF — from combat operations to humanitarian assistance.

Fixed-wing transport pilots move personnel, equipment, and supplies across the area of operations, sustaining the MAGTF through aerial refueling, logistics, and rapid deployment.