Indian Navy Naval Air Operations Officer (Erstwhile Observer)

01. What is Indian Navy Naval Air Operations Officer (Erstwhile Observer) in Govt?

The Naval Air Operations Officer, previously known as the Observer, is a key position in the Indian Navy. The officer is responsible for various duties related to air operations, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and coordination with the aircraft and crew during naval operations. The role involves ensuring the safety and efficiency of naval aviation operations and managing the operational aspects of aircraft in support of naval missions.

02. Education Eligibility

The typical educational requirements for this role are:

  • 10+2 (Senior Secondary) with a minimum of 60% marks in Physics and Mathematics.
  • Bachelor’s degree (graduation) with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or equivalent, or a degree in Engineering (B.E./B.Tech) is also acceptable.

Candidates should also clear the relevant entrance exams such as the Indian Navy Entrance Test (INET) or NDA (National Defence Academy) exam to join the Indian Navy as an Officer.

03. Handicapped Eligibility

The position of Naval Air Operations Officer is a physically demanding job and typically requires candidates to meet certain physical standards. Persons with disabilities (PwD) may not be eligible for this specific role due to the physically intense nature of the job. However, for other roles, there may be specific exemptions. It is advisable to consult the official notification for detailed guidelines on PwD eligibility.

04. Age

The age criteria usually depend on the entry scheme:

  • For NDA entry, the candidate must be between 16.5 to 19.5 years old at the time of application.
  • For Direct Entry (through INET or other examinations), the age limit is typically between 19 to 24 years.

These age limits can vary, so you should refer to the official notification for accurate details.

05. Physical Eligibility

The physical requirements for this position are stringent and include:

  • Height: Minimum 157 cm (for both men and women)
  • Weight: Proportional to height
  • Vision: Candidates should have 6/6 vision in both eyes, and they should not have color blindness.
  • Other Fitness Standards: Candidates should be in good physical health, with no deformities, and should pass the medical test conducted by the Navy.

06. Pay Grade

The pay scale for a Naval Air Operations Officer typically falls under the Indian Navy Officer category:

  • Pay Band: ₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500 per month (Level 10)
  • Additional allowances such as flying pay, sea duty allowances, and other benefits apply.

07. Ex-soldier

Ex-soldiers are eligible to apply for the position, subject to age limits and other eligibility criteria. They are often given relaxation in age and certain advantages in selection processes. Ex-soldiers can join the Indian Navy through various re-entry schemes.

08. Reservation

The Indian Navy follows government policies for reservation in recruitment.

  • There are reservations for Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC) as per government norms.
  • EWS (Economically Weaker Sections) candidates are also eligible for certain benefits.

09. Sportsperson

Sportspersons who have excelled at national or international levels may get certain relaxations in physical fitness standards and other criteria. This is typically mentioned in the official recruitment notification.

10. Promotion in Career

Promotion in the career of a Naval Air Operations Officer is structured as follows:

  • Sub Lieutenant (initial rank)
  • Lieutenant
  • Lieutenant Commander
  • Commander
  • Captain
  • Further promotions are based on seniority, performance, and available vacancies.

11. Special Eligibility in Person

Special eligibility may apply to certain categories of candidates such as ex-soldiers, sportspersons, and those with specialized qualifications or experience. These candidates may receive age relaxations or other advantages during the selection process.

12. What Work Will I Have to Do at My Workplace?

As a Naval Air Operations Officer, your responsibilities will include:

  • Planning and execution of air operations for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat.
  • Coordination with aircraft and other naval units.
  • Mission briefing and debriefing for aircrew.
  • Managing the operational aspects of aircraft on naval missions.
  • Overseeing the use of aviation assets in various maritime operations.
  • Conducting search and rescue operations in the maritime domain.

13. Which Department Does This Recruitment with Notification Original Website Link?

The recruitment process is conducted by the Indian Navy. Official notifications are published on the Indian Navy’s website:

14. In Which Department Do You Join?

When you join as a Naval Air Operations Officer, you will be part of the Indian Navy’s Air Branch, which is responsible for managing all aviation operations in the Navy. You may work closely with other departments within the Navy, including logistics, engineering, and combat units, but your main role will be related to air operations and coordination.

Always refer to the official recruitment notification for precise details and updates on eligibility, dates, and procedures.