*After you have completed at least one year of service and successfully completed Professional Workplace Assessments on first posting.
** please see full terms and conditions of offer here
As a Cyberspace Communications Specialist you will be responsible for the technology at the heart of the RAF. It will be your job to set up, operate and maintain the technology the RAF relies on to communicate.
Don't limit yourself. You can apply for more than one position and we can help you find the right role.
You can view and manage favourites here.
Already applied? See what the next steps in the application process are below.
Within your role you’ll ensure that the RAF remains at the cutting edge of technological advances, essential for the RAF to be able to communicate effectively and move information around safely and securely. You’ll be part of a highly trained, and technologically skilled, workforce responsible for a wide variety of tasks:
- Safeguarding our UK-based IT networks from intrusions
- Coordinating the RAF’s vast array of radar equipment
- Establishing overseas networks and equipment for Deployed Commanders and Air Traffic Services
As a Cyberspace Communications Specialist you will be responsible for the technology at the heart of the RAF. It will be your job to set up, operate and maintain the technology the RAF relies on to communicate.
Don't limit yourself. You can apply for more than one position and we can help you find the right role.
You can view and manage favourites here.
Already applied? See what the next steps in the application process are below.
Within your role you’ll ensure that the RAF remains at the cutting edge of technological advances, essential for the RAF to be able to communicate effectively and move information around safely and securely. You’ll work as part of a highly trained, and technologically skilled, workforce responsible for a wide variety of tasks; ranging anywhere from safeguarding our UK-based IT networks from intrusions, coordinating the RAF’s vast array of information, all the way to establishing overseas networks and equipment for Deployed Commanders and Air Traffic Services. The technical knowledge is challenging, but the benefits, the achievements, and the impacts are highly rewarding.
- GCSE Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 grade C in English language, Mathematics and an approved Science /Technology based subject.
- Find a list of the approved subjects here
- You can see what the RAF accepts in lieu of GCSEs & A Levels here.
- GCSE Grade C/Grade 4 in English, Maths and preferably Science
- Minimum Level 3 qualification in Telecommunications, Information Communications Technology, or Cyberspace. Applications from individuals with other relevant qualifications and work experience will also be considered.
- Find a list of the approved subjects here
- You can see what the RAF accepts in lieu of GCSEs & A Levels here.
- Be aged 16 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday) Applications can be submitted from age 15 years and 9 months
- You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or dual UK/Other nationality
- Commit minimum 3 years post Phase Two Training
- Pass the Defence Aptitude Assessment
- Pass a Fitness test - Details below
see all entry requirements
- Be aged 18-54 Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 9 months in order to attest before 55th birthday Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis
- You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or dual UK/Other nationality
- Commit 27 days per year
- Pass the Defence Aptitude Assessment
- Pass a General Fitness Test
10 weeks
RAF Halton
10 months
RAF Cosford
Ongoing
As assigned
15 months
As assigned
Ongoing
As assigned
Ongoing
As assigned
23 days (split)
RAF Halton
Ongoing
As assigned
ongoing
as assigned
ongoing
as assigned
Ongoing
As assigned
Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.
The skills you add to your arsenal won’t just prepare you for the RAF, they’ll prove valuable in your work and within the wider world.
During your time with us you might be called up to assist with our operations worldwide for up to six months during which you may be able to claim a pay award to cover your costs, and your employer’s too.
To get the most value from life as a Reserve we ask you commit to 27 days every year, for a minimum of 12 years.
Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises. You could also be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after your first year with us.
You must be aged 16 – 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday) Applications can be submitted from age 15 years and 9 months.
Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.
Have these minimum grades:
| GCSE pre-2017 | GCSE 2017 and after | Scottish National 5 | |
| Mathematics | C | Grade 4 | C |
| English Language | C | Grade 4 | C |
| (preferably) Science or Technology | C | Grade 4 | C |
If you do not hold a qualification in an approved Science or technology-based subject, you can still apply as a qualified Cyberspace Communications Specialist, provided you have the required English Language and Mathematics grades.
You will also need to achieve a slightly higher score in the relevant part of the entry test at an Armed Forces Careers Office (AFCO).
Find a list of the approved subjects here
You can see what the RAF accepts in lieu of GCSEs & A Levels here.
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or dual UK/Other nationality.
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application. However, candidates with a minimum of 3 years will be considered.
You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively. To check your fitness levels, we put every candidate through at least two separate fitness tests as part of the application process.
The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of the following:
- 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline)
- Achieve the required number of press-ups - within 60 seconds
- Achieve the required number of sit-ups - within 60 seconds
The second fitness test will take place at RAF Halton as part of your three-day Pre-Recruit Familiarization Visit (PRFV). This consists of the following:
- Achieving the required score on the Multi-Stage Fitness Test (MSFT or Bleep test)
- Achieve the required number of press-ups - within 60 seconds
- Achieve the required number of sit-ups - within 60 seconds
How fit you need to be to pass these tests can vary depending on role, age and gender. The requirements are listed on the charts below (Men and Women).
| MEN - 100% pass rates: | ||||
| AGE | 2.4 Km Run | Multi-Stage Fitness Test | Press-ups | Sit-ups |
| (Mins) | (Score) | (No.) | (No.) | |
| 15-16 | 11.39 | 9.03 | 20 | 35 |
| 17-29 | 11.11 | 9.10 | 20 | 35 |
| 30-34 | 11.36 | 9.04 | 19 | 32 |
| 35-39 | 12 | 8.09 | 18 | 29 |
| 40-44 | 12.26 | 8.03 | 17 | 26 |
| 45-47 | 12.54 | 7.07 | 16 | 23 |
| WOMEN - 100% pass rates: | ||||
| AGE | 2.4 Km Run | Multi-Stage Fitness Test | Press-ups | Sit-ups |
| (Mins) | (Score) | (No.) | (No.) | |
| 15-16 | 13.54 | 6.07 | 10 | 32 |
| 17-29 | 13.23 | 7.02 | 10 | 32 |
| 30-34 | 13.47 | 6.08 | 9 | 29 |
| 35-39 | 14.13 | 6.04 | 8 | 26 |
| 40-44 | 14.48 | 5.08 | 7 | 23 |
| 45-47 | 15.19 | 5.04 | 6 | 20 |
You can see the protocols for Press Ups & Sit Ups here:
You can download an MP3 file of the Multi-Stage Fitness Test below, listen to the introduction file first:
RAF MSFT: Intro
RAF MSFT: Bleep Test
You can see a video demonstration of the PRFV Fitness Test here:
Candidates joining the RAF must be medically fully fit, both physically and psychologically, to meet the challenges of military service, during which they will be expected to deploy, potentially at short notice, to locations world-wide that are remote from established medical care.
Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document.
Before your application, please note that Body Mass Index Requirements are as follows:
| Age | Male and female minimum | Male and female maximum | Male maximum with additional assessment | Female maximum with additional assessment |
| 18 + | 18 | 30 | 32 | 32 |
| 16 to < 18 | 17 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
Eyesight requirements vary for different roles. A requirement to wear glasses or contact lenses may be allowed for aircrew.
If you are unsure about any health criteria, please continue your application and your eligibility will be assessed at the medical examination stage.
During your application, the Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information.
DURING YOUR APPLICATION:
The Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information.
YOU MUST:
- Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
- Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
- Have a basic background check to get Security Check level clearance
YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:
- Have been or are a member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
- Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
- Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
- Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive.
Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted). In addition, tattoos must not be visible below the sleeve cuff while wearing uniform, although a single finger (not thumb) tattoo that could be covered by a ring may be permitted - Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
- Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt
Beard Policy: A revised facial hair policy has been agreed by the Air Force Board which will allow serving personnel to wear a smart, neatly-trimmed, full-set beard whilst maintaining high standards of appearance. The length of acceptable beards is between Grade 1 (2.5mm) and Grade 8 (25.5mm). The wearing of beards during Phase 1 and Phase 2 training is currently under consideration and details will be advised when available
You must be aged 18-54. Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 9 months in order to attest before 55th birthday. Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis.
Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.
Have these minimum grades:
| GCSE | GCSE 2017 | SNE | |
| Mathematics | C | Grade 4 | Grade 5 |
| English Language | C | Grade 4 | Grade 5 |
| (preferably) Science or Technology | C | Grade 4 | Grade 5 |
find a list of the approved subjects here
You can see what the RAF accepts in lieu of GCSEs & A Levels here.
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or dual UK/Other nationality.
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application. However, candidates with a minimum of 3 years will be considered.
You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively. To check your fitness levels, we put every candidate through at least two separate fitness tests as part of the application process.
The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of the following:
- 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline)
- Achieve the required number of press-ups - within 60 seconds
- Achieve the required number of sit-ups - within 60 seconds
How fit you need to be to pass the test can vary depending on role, age and gender. The requirements are listed on the charts below (Men and Women).
| MALES | ||||
| Age Limits | 2.4 Km Run (Minutes) | Multi-Stage Fitness Test (Level) | Press-ups (Number) | Sit-ups (Number) |
| 15-16 | 11.39 | 9.03 | 20 | 35 |
| 17-29 | 11.11 | 9.10 | 20 | 35 |
| 30-34 | 11.36 | 9.04 | 19 | 32 |
| 35-39 | 12.00 | 8.09 | 18 | 29 |
| 40-44 | 12.26 | 8.03 | 17 | 26 |
| 45-49 | 12.54 | 7.07 | 16 | 23 |
| 50-54 | 13.27 | 7.01 | 15 | 20 |
| FEMALES | ||||
| Age Limits | 2.4 Km Run(Minutes) | Multi-Stage Fitness Test (Level) | Press-ups (Number) | Sit-ups (Number) |
| 15-16 | 13.54 | 6.07 | 10 | 32 |
| 17-29 | 13.23 | 7.02 | 10 | 32 |
| 30-34 | 13.47 | 6.08 | 9 | 29 |
| 35-39 | 14.13 | 6.04 | 8 | 26 |
| 40-44 | 14.48 | 5.08 | 7 | 23 |
| 45-49 | 15.19 | 5.04 | 6 | 20 |
| 50-54 | 15.53 | 4.09 | 5 | 17 |
You can see the protocols for Press Ups & Sit Ups here:
Candidates joining the RAF must be medically fully fit, both physically and psychologically, to meet the challenges of military service, during which they will be expected to deploy, potentially at short notice, to locations world-wide that are remote from established medical care.
Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document.
Before your application, please note that Body Mass Index Requirements are as follows:
| Age | Male and female minimum | Male and female maximum | Male maximum with additional assessment | Female maximum with additional assessment |
| 18 + | 18 | 30 | 32 | 32 |
| 16 to < 18 | 17 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
Eyesight requirements vary for different roles. A requirement to wear glasses or contact lenses may be allowed for aircrew.
If you are unsure about any health criteria, please continue your application and your eligibility will be assessed at the medical examination stage.
During your application, the Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information.
YOU MUST:
- Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
- Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
- Have a basic background check to get Security Check level clearance
YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:
- Have been or are a member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
- Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
- Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
- Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive.
Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted). In addition, tattoos must not be visible below the sleeve cuff while wearing uniform, although a single finger (not thumb) tattoo that could be covered by a ring may be permitted - Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
- Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt
Beard Policy: A revised facial hair policy has been agreed by the Air Force Board which will allow serving personnel to wear a smart, neatly-trimmed, full-set beard whilst maintaining high standards of appearance. The length of acceptable beards is between Grade 1 (2.5mm) and Grade 8 (25.5mm). The wearing of beards during Phase 1 and Phase 2 training is currently under consideration and details will be advised when available
If you don’t have any of the above, you might still be able to apply. For more information please contact us.
