Aircraft Launch and Recovery Officers
Military Specific
Plans and directs how catapults, arresting gear, barricades, and visual landing aids are run and maintained on aircraft carriers. Supervises readiness and safety of that equipment, writes specifications for installations, and evaluates design proposals for new handling gear. Coordinates testing of launch and recovery systems and prepares technical instructions for landing aids. Trains personnel in carrier takeoff and landing procedures. Better suited to those who want to oversee mechanical and hydraulic systems, write precise operating instructions, and train others on takeoff and landing procedures.
What you might do
- Direct catapult and arresting gear operations
- Keep launch and landing equipment ready and safe
- Coordinate tests of launch and recovery systems
- Write specs for catapult and arresting gear
- Review designs for aircraft handling equipment
- Train crews in carrier takeoff and landing
Skills that matter
- Directing catapult and arresting gear operations
- Supervising launch and landing equipment safety
- Coordinating launch and recovery system design
- Preparing catapult installation specifications
- Evaluating aircraft handling equipment proposals
- Training personnel in carrier landing procedures
AI & the future of this role
Launch and recovery systems can gain smarter diagnostics and sequencing aids, but carrier decks remain high-stakes, weather- and tempo-driven environments. Officers who own equipment readiness, crew training, and go/no-go calls are hard to stand in for.
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