TANK CREWMAN (RECONNAISSANCE)

The Job

A Tank Crewman (Reconnaissance) acts as part of a small team taking the Army’s Scimitar light tank into combat. Formation Reconnaissance (FR) soldiers fight for the information that commanders need to make battle-winning decisions. Often working behind enemy lines, they use courage, cunning, guile, stealth and agility in order to get what they want.

The Right Job For Me?

This front-line role needs soldiers who are fit, decisive and have a thirst to win. You will need to be able to work as part of a small team in challenging conditions, which are often cramped and hot, for long periods of time. If you like the sound of an active lifestyle packed with adventure and travel then this is the job for you.

What Skills Will I Learn?

Your training will enable you to drive and maintain the Scimitar light reconnaissance tank. The vehicle combines lightning speed, stealth and firepower to hit the enemy where it hurts.Use battlefield communications systems to make sure you’re aware of what’s happening on the battlefield.Operate as part of a team and develop leadership qualities and initiative to be used in the most challenging situations.Improve and maintain the level of physical fitness needed to operate in the field.

What Training Will I Do?

Initial trainingThis will take place at Army Training Regiment (ATR) Winchester. During your 14-week basic training course you will learn military skills such as foot drill, how to handle and fire a weapon, how to live and work in the open, and how to tackle an assault course, as well as developing your stamina and fitness. You will be stretched further than you thought possible, and toughen up both physically and mentally. Having successfully mastered these basic military skills you will take your place in the Passing Out parade in front of an invited audience of parents, relatives and friends.Further trainingAfter completing basic training, you will begin your Phase 2 training at Bovington, Dorset, which lasts for about 17 weeks.Driving licencesLearning how to drive a car will be your prelude to learning how to drive the Scimitar Reconnaissance Vehicle.Bowman communicationsThe Army’s advanced communications system keeps every part of the combat force in touch and informed.Operating weapons systems Learning how to maintain and fire extremely effective weapons systems quickly and accurately is crucial to your job.

What Qualifications Could I Get?

As well as learning to drive a car and holding a licence, you will also be enrolled on an NVQ scheme that leads to a level 2 NVQ in Engineering and Maintenance. As your career progresses towards commanding your own tank, you take further courses and have opportunities to take further NVQs and academic qualifications.

Future Prospects

Your prospects for promotion as you become an Advanced Signaller, Gunner or Driver, depend on your performance. But you could become a Lance Corporal after two years with your regiment, a Corporal in four years and a Sergeant in eight years. You could then progress to become a Sergeant Major controlling the soldiers in your squadron and then a Regimental Sergeant Major, the top non-commissioned rank in the regiment. You will have the chance to follow a sporting career alongside your military one if you shine in a particular sport.