Hey, current junior here, and I've always had a thing for planes. If I joined the military with hopes of becoming a pilot, which branch should I specifically look into?
If you're looking to maximize your chances of becoming a pilot, you should strongly consider the United States Air Force or the Navy. Both branches train a large number of pilots and have a wide array of aircraft that they operate.
The U.S. Air Force is the branch most associated with aviation. As the primary user of fixed-wing aircraft, the Air Force has an extensive pilot training program. It not only trains pilots for its own ranks but also for other branches of the U.S Department of Defense.
On the other hand, the Navy also trains a significant number of pilots to operate its aircraft carriers' fighter planes and helicopters. The Navy is unique in its need for pilots due to its significant aviation capabilities aboard its numerous aircraft carriers.
However, it's worth mentioning that becoming a military pilot is a serious commitment. It requires strenuous training and a number of years of service post-training, usually around ten years after completion of pilot training. Be sure to consider these factors in your decision. No matter which branch you choose, the road to becoming a military pilot is a challenging but rewarding one!
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