This guide provides helpful information for those looking into joining the Navy as a Naval Aircrewman Helicopter (AWS) during the Fiscal Year 2025.
Flying over open waters. Diving into the waves. Rescuing those in need. Naval Aircrewmen – Helicopter (AWS) do it all. They’re the extra set of eyes and ears behind the cockpit, the ones scanning the horizon, manning the guns, and leaping into the sea when lives are on the line.
One day, you could be inserting Navy SEALs into hostile territory. The next, you’re hauling supplies across the ocean to keep our fleet mission-ready. And when disaster strikes, you’ll be the one dropping into the water to bring someone home.
This is more than just a job—it’s a lifesaving, mission-critical role. Think you have what it takes?
Job Description
What You’ll Do
Naval Aircrewmen Helicopter (AWS) do it all—rescue ops, combat missions, supply runs, anything the mission calls for. You’ll be in the air, scanning the horizon, locked onto the target. Maybe it’s pulling someone from the water. Maybe it’s delivering SEALs into a fight. Maybe it’s keeping watch, ready to fire.
This is high-stakes work. AWS Sailors operate from helicopters and UAVs, running missions like:
- Search and Rescue (SAR) – Pulling people from the ocean, mountains, combat zones
- Airborne Mine Countermeasures (AMCM) – Finding and clearing deadly sea mines
- Tactical & Medical Evacuations (TACEVAC/MEDEVAC) – Getting wounded out fast
- Special Operations Support – Flying SEALs and SWCC into action
- Aerial Firefighting – Dropping water on raging fires
- Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW) – Spotting and engaging enemy vessels
And when needed, AWS Sailors operate Crew-Served Weapons (CSW), because sometimes firepower is the best defense.
Where You’ll Work
AWS go where the mission takes them. Could be in the air, could be on a flight deck, could be anywhere in the world.
- In-flight – The chopper is your office. You see everything first.
- Aircraft carriers & amphibious ships – Launching from the sea, keeping ships supplied and secure.
- Naval air stations – Training, prepping for the next mission.
- Hangars & flight decks – Checking gear, making sure everything’s mission-ready.
Expect wind, noise, and adrenaline. It’s not a desk job.
What You’ll Be Responsible For
AWS Sailors don’t just sit in the back. They run missions. Tasks can include:
- Aerial Gunnery & Small Arms – Firing mounted machine guns, defending the crew.
- Cargo Transport & VERTREP – Moving supplies between ships or into combat zones.
- Night Vision Operations – Flying low and fast, under the radar.
- Special Warfare Support – SEALs, SWCC, whoever needs a ride.
- Flight Safety & Observer Duties – Watching everything, calling the shots when needed.
Not everyone can do this job. It’s fast, unpredictable, and physically demanding. If you’re looking for easy, look somewhere else. If you’re looking for a challenge, AWS is waiting.
Different Roles
Aircrew Readiness Manager (Helicopter)
Aircrew Readiness Managers keep helicopter squadrons ready for anything. They handle the scheduling, training, and administration of aircrew operations, making sure missions happen smoothly.
They also:
- Manage Naval Aircrew Training Programs to keep skills sharp
- Standardize training across squadrons to boost proficiency and readiness
- Oversee Search and Rescue (SAR) and Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization (NATOPS) programs
- Handle tactics, ordnance, and weapons training
- Approve new training devices and develop aircrew curriculum
- Manage aircrew physical fitness and health programs
They don’t fly, but they make sure the people who do are 100% prepared for anything.
Helicopter Warfare Specialist
Helicopter Warfare Specialists are the backbone of combat helicopter crews. They operate in maritime and overland environments, supporting mine hunting, logistics, and combat operations.
They specialize in:
- Mine countermeasures – Detecting and neutralizing underwater threats
- Aerial cargo movement – Transporting mission-critical gear
- Rescue operations – Operating lifesaving equipment and assisting in medical evacuations
- Aerial gunnery & small arms handling – Keeping the helicopter combat-ready
- Night Vision Operations (NVD) – Operating under total darkness
- Flight safety observer duties – Ensuring safe operations from takeoff to landing
This role requires a Top-Secret security clearance. If you’re not comfortable handling classified missions, this isn’t for you.
Rank Structure
| Pay Grade | Rate | Abbreviation | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| E-1 | Airman Recruit | AR | Airman Recruit |
| E-2 | Airman Apprentice | AA | Airman Apprentice |
| E-3 | Airman | AN | Airman |
| E-4 | Naval Aircrewman Helicopter Third Class | AWS3 | Petty Officer Third Class |
| E-5 | Naval Aircrewman Helicopter Second Class | AWS2 | Petty Officer Second Class |
| E-6 | Naval Aircrewman Helicopter First Class | AWS1 | Petty Officer First Class |
| E-7 | Chief Naval Aircrewman Helicopter | AWSC | Chief Petty Officer |
| E-8 | Senior Chief Naval Aircrewman Helicopter | AWSCS | Senior Chief Petty Officer |
| E-9 | Master Chief Naval Aircrewman Helicopter | AWSCM | Master 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 Grade | Less than 2 Years | Over 2 Years | Over 3 Years | Over 4 Years | Over 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.
Training and Career Opportunities
Training Pipeline
After completing Recruit Training Command (Boot Camp) in Great Lakes, IL, AWS candidates report to a series of specialized training schools.
| School | Location | Duration | Subjects Covered | Training Methods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aircrew Candidate School (NACCS) | Pensacola, FL | ~6 weeks | Water & Land Survival, Flight Safety | Classroom, Group Instruction |
| Aviation Rescue Swimmer Preparatory Course (ARSPC) | Pensacola, FL | 2 weeks | Physical Training, SAR Swimming Skills | Classroom, Group Instruction |
| Aircrew Rescue Swimmer School | Pensacola, FL | ~7 weeks | Search and Rescue (SAR) Techniques | Classroom, Group Instruction |
| AWS Class “A” Technical School | Pensacola, FL | ~6 weeks | Basic Aviation Theory, AWS Rating-Specific Skills | Classroom, Hands-On Training |
| Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) School | San Diego, CA & Brunswick, ME | ~2 weeks | Survival, Evasion, Resistance, Escape Techniques | Classroom, Field Training |
| Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) | Various Naval Air Stations | 2-18 weeks (varies by aircraft) | Aircraft Systems Training | Classroom, Hands-On Flight Training |
Physical Fitness Requirements
AWS candidates must meet rigorous fitness standards to complete training. Below are the minimum requirements for each phase:
Naval Aircrew Candidate School (NACCS) Requirements
- Daily intense calisthenics
- Navy Physical Readiness Test (PRT) with a “good-medium” score based on age/gender (sit-ups, push-ups, 1.5-mile run)
- Swim 1 mile in a flight suit in 80 minutes or less
- Swim 75 yards in full flight gear (backstroke, sidestroke, breaststroke – 25 yards each)
- Tread water for 2 minutes, then 3 minutes of drown-proofing, followed by 5 minutes floating with a life preserver
- Jump from a 12-foot tower and swim 15 yards underwater wearing a flight suit and boots
Aviation Rescue Swimmer Preparatory Course (ARSPC) Requirements
- 450-meter swim in 11:30 or less
- 50 push-ups in 2 minutes or less
- Forearm plank for 2 minutes minimum
- 6 pull-ups in 2 minutes minimum
- 2-mile run in 16:00 or less
Aviation Rescue Swimmer School (ARSS) Requirements
Candidates must complete all testable evolutions, including:
- 800-meter swim in 20:00 or less
- 400-meter buddy tow swim in 16:00 or less
- 1600-meter swim in 42:00 or less
- 800-meter buddy tow swim in 35:00 or less
- 500-meter into 400-meter buddy tow swim in 27:00 or less
Rescue Swimmer Fitness Out Test:
- 4 pull-ups in flight suit & boots within 2 minutes
- 50lb dumbbell carry for 100 yards over obstacles in 1:25 or less
- 1-mile litter carry in 16:30 or less
- 500-meter into 400-meter buddy tow swim in 27:00 or less
To graduate, candidates must:
- Be comfortable in the water and underwater environments
- Adapt quickly to using mask, fins, and snorkel
- Demonstrate proficiency in lifesaving & medical procedures
- Pass all in-course testable evolutions, including:
- 90 minutes of daily calisthenics
- 30-35 minute runs daily
- Swim distances up to 2000 meters
Important Considerations
- AWS Rescue Swimmers must voluntarily accept the extreme demands of this training
- If a candidate drops out or fails, they may not be eligible for E4 automatic advancement or continued service in the Aircrew Program
- Future assignments will be determined by Navy needs, training performance, and personal qualifications
AWS training is built for elite candidates who can handle pressure, adapt quickly, and push past limits. If you make it through, you’ll earn one of the toughest and most rewarding roles in Naval Aviation.
Assignments & Career Progression
After training, AWSs are assigned to naval air stations, squadrons, aircraft carriers, or aviation facilities worldwide. About 60% of assignments take place at sea.
AWSs can pursue advanced training in specialized aircraft systems, combat search and rescue (CSAR), or leadership roles. Those who earn college degrees may qualify for Officer programs.
Post-Service Opportunities
The technical skills and flight experience gained in this role can lead to career opportunities in:
- Commercial aviation (search & rescue, firefighting, logistics)
- Emergency response & law enforcement
- Private security & government contracting
AWSs train relentlessly to handle high-risk, high-reward missions. This is a fast-paced, physically demanding career that only a select few will complete.
Qualifications to Join
Basic Requirements
To become a Naval Aircrewman Helicopter (AWS), you must meet the following:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- U.S. citizenship
- Eligible for a SECRET security clearance
- Strong swimming ability (required before entering training)
- Manual dexterity & physical strength
- Comfortable working with tools, equipment, and machinery
- Team-oriented, self-motivated, and detail-oriented
- Normal hearing and color perception
Qualifications
ASVAB Scores:
- VE + AR + MK + MC = 210 OR
- AR + AS + MK + VE = 210
Physical Fitness Requirements:
- Pass the Navy Physical Readiness Test (PRT) with at least a satisfactory-medium score for your age and gender
- Class II Swim Test (completed before training)
- Enter the water from a 10-ft platform
- Tread water for 10 minutes
- Swim 100 yards (sidestroke, breaststroke, backstroke, and American crawl for at least 25 yards each)
Medical & Health Requirements:
- 20/20 vision (correctable) & normal depth perception
- No speech impediments (must pass a “reading aloud” test)
- Weight requirements: Between 103 lbs – 245 lbs
- No history of disqualifying medical conditions, including:
- Hay fever
- Asthma
- Severe allergic reactions (bee stings, food, etc.)
- Chronic motion sickness
Security Clearance
Candidates must qualify for a SECRET clearance and meet Personal Reliability Program (PRP) standards per SECNAVINST 5510.30.
Additional Considerations
- If you fail or voluntarily drop from aircrew training, you may not be eligible for E4 automatic advancement or continued participation in the Aircrew Program
- Final assignment & follow-on training will be determined by:
- Navy needs
- Your performance in training
- Your personal qualifications & preferences
AWS training is physically & mentally demanding, but if you meet the challenge, you’ll be part of an elite community of highly skilled helicopter aircrewmen in the U.S. Navy.
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 Helicopter (AWS), 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:
