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Whether you want to ‘be the best’ or ‘get on’ as the Army and Navy say, how far you get in your career is down to how good you are; it’s that simple. Progression through the ranks is clearly defined, with a formal hierarchical structure for each of the Armed Forces.
In the Army you will start off as an Officer Cadet - the rank held while you are undertaking initial Officer training at Sandhurst - at the end of which you will be commissioned. From here you will move up to Second Lieutenant where you will lead a 30-strong platoon, command minor operations, train your soldiers and delegate tasks.
Following extensive operational experience you will assume the rank of Lieutenant before rising to become second in command as a Captain, in charge of a sub-unit of 120 soldiers. And with proven leadership and technical skills you can make your mark as a Major after 8 to 10 years’ service - a position where you may opt to remain for the remainder of your Army career. But if you have higher aspirations (and a little patience), then you could make the final move as Lieutenant Colonel after a further eight to ten years.
In the Royal Navy, however, there are many more ranks for you to go through. Your first role after Officer Cadet will be Midshipman before you start to assume more senior positions as Sub-Lieutenant, Lieutenant and then Lieutenant Commander. Thereafter, you could take the reigns as Captain then Commodore before joining the higher echelons of the Admiralty.
The Royal Air Force is not too dissimilar with 10 officer ranks separating you from the top gun. From Officer Cadet your career path will see your next position as Pilot Officer followed by progression as Flying Officer, Flight Lieutenant, Squadron Leader, Wing Commander, Group Captain, Air Commodore, Air Vice- Air- Air Chief- Marshall and then Marshall of the Royal Air Force.
Whatever role you take on the fact remains that the Armed Forces is a challenging and fulfilling career. And despite the obvious dangers of putting your life on the line for Queen and country, if you’re good you’ll get on. For instance, in the Royal Navy you could become a Lieutenant Commander by the time you turn 30 and even Commander at around 40. But typically, promotion from Officer to your next role will take between three and five years.
Wondering what to do now? Check out our expert career advice, or find out more about working in the Armed Forces.