Willee

Thank you for the insight, yes that is what I've heard regarding the F-35 as well. That is the platform I'll be applying to mostly for these ANG units. A bit presumptuous of me to suppose I'll be selected anyway, I think these guys get like 300 apps per slot. I'll apply though, I've yet to meet a fighter who said it wasn't worth it.

Interesting, many thanks for your thorough reply. That's a good point and one I've been considering too; knowing my luck I'll turn away from fighters just to get rear ended by some bozo on the way to my office job on my 34th birthday and develop neck issues anyway. You would think they'd have developed a lighter helmet and more reclined seat for the F-35s by now, though I get they pack a ton of tech in that helmet. You reckon you have some breathing room to be strategic with your neck positioning during BFM to avoid the check 6 axial shear? I figured they pick that stuff apart during debriefs. Definitely would agree with ya that the F-35 would be tremendously disadvantaged in air to air against the F-15 or 16. Didn't realize that was a debate, lol

Howdy, In the off chance someone reads this, how debilitating really are the neck and/or back issues from the 9G sorties? Every fighter pilot I've spoken to has basically said "yeah my neck hurts but there's ways to manage it and its cool." But one of them has a fused neck. Is it chronic pain and certain cervical degeneration that follows you even after the conclusion of your 10 year stint, renders you incapable of playing with your kids/turning your head fully, and poppin oxys for the rest of your life? Or is it a mild ache that surfaces occasionally throughout life after you're done? I have a 99 PCSM with a PPL, a STEM degree, and some other accolades that are probably not that important. I'd like to make the best use out of my credentials for a rewarding military career, and while I am captivated by the fighter mission (like almost everyone I guess), the thought of turning my head with an effective weight of ~150 lbs bearing down my cervical spine makes me nervous. Currently deciding between pursuing Fighters AD/ANG, or Heavies ANG. I know we all pay a price in one way or another for our passions and professions, but I do enjoy being able to look around at stuff without pain. I appreciate any and all info