Originally Posted by
Pontius Navigator
I think he can read and maybe even reply.
Not familiar with the terms mentioned but if Control is ATC and Systems is fighter control or battle management, they are poles apart but the aptitude requirements are similar.
Is WSO not an option or is that the Systems job? Again poles apart but transfer from ATC to WSO is a trodden path.
Air Ops is the new combined name for ATC and ABM.
Consider Air Ops (S) as new money for flight ops, surveillance ABM, space. Air Ops (C) is an amalgam of ABM controllers and ATC. There is combined training pipelines in the work but at the merger is was more a name change without any noticable questions.
In response to the OP:
1. Yes, if you've achieved high enough aptitude they will try and push you down Air Ops (C) first. They are usually most in need of manpower.
2. Traditionally, people have found it alot easier to go from Air Ops (C) to (S). Generally (S) requires a lower aptitude and seen as an easier transition. If you do qualify as a (C) though, manning is unlikely to be willing to let you go (see point 1).
3. Right or wrong, flight ops is/was seen as a bit of a dumping ground for those who had failed phase 2 training in other branches. Hence the banter directed at them.
Personally, if you have the aptitude for (C) then go for it. I found the job far more challenging and interesting that what you could see the systems guys doing. With the addition of ATC postings that has expanded.