18X pilots learn RPAs first
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M.—U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Zachary, an 18X student with the 6th Reconnaissance Squadron, flies his first intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission on the MQ-1 Predator simulator Feb. 8 at the 16th Training Squadron. Zachary is one of the newest members of the 18X career field, which allows officers to become Remotely Piloted Aircraft pilots without first being a pilot in a traditional aircraft. According to current Air Force guidance, the last names of RPA pilots and sensor operators are not releasable due to operational security constraints. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Logan Clark/Released)