Naval Aircrewman Tactical-Helicopter (AWR): Definitive Guide (2025)

This guide provides helpful information for those looking into joining the Navy as a Naval Aircrewman Tactical-Helicopter (AWR) during the Fiscal Year 2025.

Finding a submarine in the open ocean is like searching for a needle in a haystack—except the needle is stealthy, armed, and dangerous, and the haystack is the entire ocean.

As a Tactical Romeo Helicopter Aircrewman (AWR), you’re the eyes and ears of the fleet, scanning the deep from an MH-60 Romeo for threats that most will never see coming.

But your mission doesn’t stop there. AWRs are also trained rescue swimmers, diving straight from a helicopter into rough seas to save lives when seconds matter. Whether you’re tracking enemy submarines or pulling a stranded Sailor from the waves, your job is all about finding what others can’t.

Think you’ve got what it takes? Welcome to the hunt.

Job Description

navy-awr-insignia
AWR Insignia – Credit: U.S. Navy

Naval Aircrewmen (Tactical Helicopter) (AWR) are Navy enlisted Sailors who find, analyze, classify, and track sub-surface, surface, and air contacts. They use Sound Navigation and Ranging (SONAR), sonobuoy, Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR), Electronic Support Measures (ESM), Electro-Optical (EO)/Infrared (IR), Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR), and LINK-16.

AWRs don’t just hunt submarines. They also handle tactical comms, weapons delivery, and support special operations. Search and Rescue (SAR), Humanitarian Assistance, Disaster Relief—if it happens over water, they’re in the mix.

These aircrewmen operate sonar, scan the ocean, and drop sonobuoys, tracking subs that don’t want to be found. They run night vision ops, move cargo, and operate crew-served weapons when needed. Some even jump into the water to save lives.

Assignments? Could be anywhere. Aircraft carriers, shore stations, land squadrons. One day, you’re flying low over the waves. The next, you’re rigging a helo for a mission halfway across the world.

What You’ll Do

  • Detect, track, and classify submarines using sonar and sonobuoys
  • Set up tactical comms and relay mission-critical information
  • Deliver weapons for anti-submarine and combat missions
  • Support Naval Special Warfare and aircrew operations
  • Conduct Search and Rescue (SAR) and Combat SAR
  • Operate night vision devices (NVD) and handle passenger/cargo transport
  • Execute vertical replenishment (VERTREP) and medical evacuations (MEDEVAC)
  • Fire crew-served weapons as needed
  • Act as a flight observer, ensuring mission and crew safety

Different Roles

Aircraft Carrier Tactical Support Center (CV-TSC) Operator

  • Operates the AN/SQQ-34C system to support carrier-based anti-submarine warfare (ASW), surface surveillance, and search and rescue (SAR).
  • Assists MH-60R, P-3, P-8, NATO, and UAS tactical aircraft missions.
  • Configures system settings based on mission requirements.

Aircrew Readiness Manager (Tactical Helicopter)

  • Oversees aircrew scheduling, training programs, and operational readiness.
  • Manages NATOPS and SAR programs, ensuring compliance and effectiveness.
  • Develops and launches new aircrew training programs.
  • Coordinates tactics, weapons training, and aircrew certifications.
  • Handles aircrew physical fitness programs and qualification standards.

Multi-Mission Helicopter Sensor Operator

  • Runs electronic sensor equipment to detect, classify, and track air, surface, and subsurface threats.
  • Manages tactical communications and assists with mission coordination.
  • Handles weapons deployment and ordnance operations.
  • Performs crew-served weapons operations, SAR, MEDEVAC, and VERTREP.
  • Assists in Basic Life Support (BLS) and Humanitarian Assistance/Disaster Relief (HADR) missions.

Rank Structure

Pay GradeRateAbbreviationTitle
E-1Airman RecruitARAirman Recruit
E-2Airman ApprenticeAAAirman Apprentice
E-3AirmanANAirman
E-4Naval Aircrewman Tactical Helicopter Third ClassAWR3Petty Officer Third Class
E-5Naval Aircrewman Tactical Helicopter Second ClassAWR2Petty Officer Second Class
E-6Naval Aircrewman Tactical Helicopter First ClassAWR1Petty Officer First Class
E-7Chief Naval Aircrewman Tactical HelicopterAWRCChief Petty Officer
E-8Senior Chief Naval Aircrewman Tactical HelicopterAWRCSSenior Chief Petty Officer
E-9Master Chief Naval Aircrewman Tactical HelicopterAWRCMMaster Chief Petty Officer

Salary and Benefits

Salary for the First 6 Years

Monthly pay for Navy enlisted Sailors (E-1 to E-6) in the first six years is laid out in the January  2025 Active Duty Pay chart:

Pay GradeLess than 2 YearsOver 2 YearsOver 3 YearsOver 4 YearsOver 6 Years
E-1$2,108.10$2,108.10$2,108.10$2,108.10$2,108.10
E-2$2,362.80$2,362.80$2,362.80$2,362.80$2,362.80
E-3$2,484.60$2,640.60$2,800.80$2,800.80$2,800.80
E-4$2,752.20$2,892.90$3,049.80$3,204.30$3,341.40
E-5$3,001.50$3,203.70$3,358.80$3,517.20$3,763.80
E-6$3,276.60$3,606.00$3,765.00$3,919.80$4,080.60

Extra Pays and Allowances

Housing Allowance (BAH):
For members living off-base. Covers rent, based on rank, location, and if they have dependents.

Subsistence Allowance (BAS):
Enlisted get $465.77 monthly for food.

Hazard Duty Pay:
For dangerous jobs. Pays $150-$250 per month, depending on the job.

Sea Pay:
For those assigned to ships or deployed units. Depends on rank and time at sea, from $50 to $750 a month.

Special and Incentive Pays:
Bonuses for certain roles, like air traffic control or unique skills. These can be a few hundred to thousands per year.

Source: Figures are from the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.

Benefits

  • Healthcare: Active-duty personnel are eligible for free complete medical and dental treatment. Tricare programs are inexpensive for families to use.
  • Housing Accomodation: Depending on location, rank, and family size, free on-base accommodation or a tax-free housing allowance (BAH) for off-base living are available.
  • Food: Monthly Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS) for food costs is known as the “food allowance.”
  • Blended Retirement System (BRS): Conventional pensions are no longer available to active-duty personnel. Rather:
    • Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): Up to 5% in government matching and automatic contributions.
    • Retirement Pay: After 20 years of service, you’re eligible for monthly payments according on the BRS formula, which combines TSP savings with a calculated pension.
  • Education:
    • Availability of tuition assistance programs that pay for all or part of college tuition.
    • Support for higher education under the post-9/11 GI Bill.
    • Navy College Program to support education while on service.
  • Life Insurance: Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance (SGLI) provides coverage up to $500,000.
  • Vacation: ten or more federal holidays plus thirty days of paid vacation each year.
  • Extra Benefits:
    • Exchanges and commissaries provide tax-free purchasing.
    • Discounted travel via military resorts, access to fitness centers, and leisure amenities.
Navy-AWR-Rating-Naval-Aircrewman-Tactical-Helicopter-Image-704X396

Training and Career Opportunities

After completing Boot Camp at Recruit Training Command Great Lakes, you’ll report for specialized training, including:

Core Training

SchoolLocationDurationFocusTraining Method
Aircrew Candidate SchoolPensacola, FL4 weeksWater and Land Survival, Flight SafetyClassroom, Group Instruction
Aircrew Rescue Preparatory Course (ARSPC)Pensacola, FL2 weeksPhysical Training, Search and Rescue (SAR) SwimmingClassroom, Hands-On Training
Aircrew Rescue Swimmer SchoolPensacola, FL5 weeksSAR Techniques, Waterborne RescueClassroom, Practical Application

Physical Fitness Requirements for NACCS and Rescue Swimmer Training

To graduate from Naval Aircrew Candidate School (NACCS), applicants must:

  • Undergo intense daily calisthenics
  • Pass the Physical Readiness Test (PRT) with a “good-medium” score (based on age and sex) in:
    • Sit-ups
    • Push-ups
    • 1.5-mile run (proper Navy form required)
  • Swim 1 mile in a flight suit within 80 minutes
  • Swim 75 yards in full flight gear (25 yards each of backstroke, sidestroke, and breaststroke)
  • In full flight gear:
    • Tread water for 2 minutes
    • Drown-proof for 3 minutes
    • Float with a life preserver for 5 minutes
  • Jump from a 12-foot tower and swim 15 yards underwater in flight suit and boots

Physical Requirements for ARSPC (Aviation Rescue Swimmer Preparatory Course)

While attending ARSPC, candidates must pass the In and Out Tests:

  • 450-meter swim in 11:30 or less
  • 50 push-ups in 2 minutes or less
  • Forearm plank for at least 2 minutes
  • 6 pull-ups in 2 minutes
  • 2-mile run in 16 minutes or less

Physical Tests During Rescue Swimmer School

Once in Rescue Swimmer School, candidates must complete all in-course testable evolutions, including:

  • 800-meter timed swim in 20:00 or less
  • 400-meter timed buddy tow in 16:00 or less
  • 1600-meter timed swim in 42:00 or less
  • 800-meter timed buddy tow in 35:00 or less
  • 500-meter swim into a 400-meter buddy tow in 27:00 or less
  • Rescue Swimmer Fitness Out Test:
    • 4 pull-ups (wearing flight suit and boots) in 2 minutes
    • 50lb dumbbell carry over 100 yards with obstacles in 1:25 or less
    • 1-mile litter walk in 16:30 or less
    • 500-meter swim into a 400-meter buddy tow in 27:00 or less

Final Graduation Requirements for Rescue Swimmer School

  • Be comfortable in open water and underwater environments
  • Adapt quickly to using mask, fins, and snorkel
  • Be proficient in administering medical and lifesaving procedures
  • Pass the final Rescue Swimmer Fitness Out Test:
    • 4 pull-ups (flight suit and boots) in 2 minutes
    • Carry two 50lb dumbbells
    • 42 push-ups in 2 minutes
    • 50 sit-ups in 2 minutes
    • 400-meter buddy tow in 18 minutes
  • Complete all in-course testable evolutions:
    • 90 minutes of intense calisthenics and 30-35 minute runs daily
    • 800-meter swim within 20 minutes
    • 1500-meter swim within 35 minutes
    • 2000-meter swim within 55 minutes
    • 400-meter buddy tow within 16 minutes
    • 800-meter buddy tow within 35 minutes

Important Notes

  • Voluntary Drop Policy: Applicants must understand that if they voluntarily drop from training or fail to meet requirements, they lose automatic advancement to E4 and may be reassigned based on the needs of the Navy, their performance, and their qualifications.

Advanced Training

SchoolLocationDurationFocusTraining Method
AWR Class “A” Technical SchoolPensacola, FL13 weeksBasic Aviation Theory, Tactical Helicopter OperationsClassroom, Hands-On Training
Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS)Various Naval Air Stations2-18 weeksAircraft Systems, Tactical OperationsClassroom, Practical Application
SERE SchoolSan Diego, CA & Brunswick, ME2 weeksSurvival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) TechniquesClassroom, Hands-On Training

Advanced Training & Career Growth

  • After training, AWRs are stationed on aircraft carriers or air stations worldwide, with 60% of assignments at sea. Promotion opportunities depend on performance.
  • Further training is available throughout your career.
  • With leadership experience and a degree, you can transition into Officer roles.

Post-Service Opportunities

Skills gained as an AWR lead to careers in:

  • Aviation & Search and Rescue Operations
  • Law Enforcement & Federal Agencies
  • Emergency Response & Private Security

Qualifications to Join

Basic Requirements

To become an Aircrewman Tactical – Helicopter, you must:

  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Be a U.S. citizen eligible for security clearance
  • Be physically fit, with manual dexterity and strength
  • Be comfortable working with tools, equipment, and machinery
  • Be self-motivated and able to work as part of a team

Qualifications

You must meet all eligibility requirements, including:

  • ASVAB Scores:
    • VE + AR + MK + MC = 210 OR
    • AR + AS + MK + VE = 210
    • Scores are reviewed at NACCS for specific source rating qualification.
  • Physical Fitness:
    • Pass the Navy Physical Readiness Test (PRT) with a satisfactory-medium score for your age and gender.
    • Sign a Hold Harmless Agreement before taking the PRT.
  • Swim Requirements:
    • Pass the Class II swim test:
      • Jump from 10 feet into the water.
      • Tread water for 10 minutes.
      • Swim 100 yards, using sidestroke, breaststroke, backstroke, and American crawl (25 yards each).
  • Medical and Vision Requirements:
    • 20/20 vision correctable in both eyes (uncorrected must meet minimum standards).
    • Normal color and depth perception.
    • Normal hearing.
    • No speech impediments (must pass “reading aloud” test per MANMED P-117).
    • Must meet aviation duty weight standards (103 to 245 pounds).
  • Disqualifying Conditions:
    • Hay fever, asthma, bee sting allergies, food allergies, or chronic motion sickness.
  • Drug Use Policy:
    • No illegal or controlled substance use (waivers considered case-by-case).

Security Clearance

To be an Aircrewman Tactical – Helicopter, you must:

  • Obtain a SECRET clearance
  • Meet standards for the Personal Reliability Program (PRP) as per SECNAVINST 5510.30

Important Notes

  • If you voluntarily drop from training or fail to meet program requirements, you will lose automatic advancement to E-4 and will be reassigned based on:
    • Navy needs
    • Your performance
    • Your qualifications
    • Your personal desires

The enlistment qualification requirements above are current as of Fiscal Year 2025, per the Navy Personnel Command. This information is not readily available to the public. So, contact your local Navy Enlisted Recruiter for the most current requirements to join the Navy as an enlisted Sailor.

More Information

If you wish to learn more about becoming a Naval Aircrewman Tactical-Helicopter (AWR), contact your local Navy Enlisted Recruiter. They will provide you with more detailed information you’re unlikely to find online.

You may also be interested in the following related Navy Enlisted jobs:

Ted Kingston
I’m a Navy veteran who used to serve as a Navy recruiter. This website is the most reliable source of information for all Enlisted Navy Sailor aspirants. In coordination with a network of current and former Navy recruiters, my goal is to make reliable information easily available to you so you can make informed career decisions.

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