Is 1A7X1 (Aerial Gunner) a Good AFSC?
United States Air Force · Air Force Specialty Code
Quick Facts — 1A7X1 (Aerial Gunner)
AIT / Training
8 weeks
Training Location
Kirtland AFB, NM
Career Field
Special Operations
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Score Breakdown
About 1A7X1 Aerial Gunner
Operates defensive weapon systems on Air Force special operations and rescue aircraft including the AC-130 gunship, HH-60, and CV-22. Provides direct fire support and suppression for special operations missions.
8 weeks
Kirtland AFB, NM
Special Operations
Recruiter vs. Reality
What the Recruiter Says
You'll man the guns on AC-130 gunships and HH-60 rescue helicopters — providing the firepower that protects special operations forces and rescues isolated personnel. Aerial gunners are part of the Air Force Special Operations Command community and the work is as real as it sounds. Flight pay, a firearms-intensive career, and assignments that put you in the most operationally significant places in AFSOC.
What It's Actually Like
Aerial gunner is one of the most operationally engaged non-pilot flying careers in the Air Force. You'll work in AFSOC units where the mission tempo is high and the standards are exacting. AC-130 gunship missions are exactly as consequential as the name implies and the crews train relentlessly for the scenarios that matter most. The physical demands and the operational pace are real career features. Hurlburt Field, Florida is the home of most AFSOC flying units and the culture reflects that. Cannon AFB, New Mexico is the other primary location and has its own relationship with quality of life.