A national airspace system is a complex and dynamic 4-dimensional environment. Even equipped with sophisticated technology, contemporary military aircraft will always require ground-based information and close control to enable them to integrate with safety, and function with operational freedom.

BAE Systems College offers training in all control disciplines, at all levels.

The basic course gives students a thorough knowledge of subjects fundamental to the profession:

• Meteorology
• Navigation
• Rules of the Air
• Visual and Radar Control Procedures
• Safety Parameters.

Skills and techniques are developed and consolidated with practical training using the colleges' highly realistic simulation systems.

The advanced course extends students' knowledge and skills to prepare them for the wider Area Radar environment, which includes:

• Middle and Upper Airspace Operations
• Special Tasks e.g. air to air refuelling; supersonic flights
• Emergency Organisation and Control
• The interface with civil air traffic operations

Operating military aircraft holds many dangers and high costs, expertly trained controllers will minimise the risks and maximise the effects.

(An effective air traffic controller must possess some natural ability to make tactical and strategic decisions in an environment with rapidly changing information. BAE Systems College offers appropriate aptitude testing to identify suitable students.)