Study Finds UAV Demand Exceeds Number of USAF Pilots
Brookings Institution study prepared by USAF Colonel Bradley Hoagland found that there is an insufficient number UAV pilots to keep up with the demand. This is attributed to a “high rate of attrition” and the “intense tempo of operations.” A Brookings Institution study prepared by USAF Colonel Bradley Hoagland found that there is an insufficient number UAV pilots to keep up with the demand. This is attributed to a “high rate of attrition” and the “intense tempo of operations.” The reports note that this also led to fewer promotions when compared to conventional pilots. Hoagland highlighted the need to acknowledge the unique skills involved in piloting UAVs.
Colonel Hoagland is a command pilot with over 3,400 hours in the T-37, T-38, T-1A, and C-130E/H3. He has 298 combat hours in support of Operations Joint Endeavor, Joint Forge, Allied Force, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. Col Hoagland is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy with a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering, and holds a master’s degree in engineering and environmental management from the Air Force Institute of Technology.