how to become a tanker in the army

3 min read 27-01-2025

Meta Description: Aspiring to be an Army tanker? This comprehensive guide details the path to becoming an armored crewman, covering qualifications, training, and the rewarding career awaiting you. Learn about the physical demands, required skills, and the exciting life of operating and maintaining tanks in the US Army. Discover if this challenging and fulfilling role is right for you! (158 characters)

What Does an Army Tanker Do?

Army tankers, officially known as armored crewmen, are the skilled soldiers who operate and maintain the Army's tanks and other armored vehicles. They're the backbone of armored units, responsible for everything from driving and gunnery to maintenance and battlefield tactics. This isn't just about driving a powerful machine; it's about teamwork, precision, and the ability to operate under immense pressure.

The daily responsibilities of an Army tanker can vary depending on their specific role within the crew (commander, gunner, driver, loader) and their unit's mission. However, common tasks include:

Operating and maintaining armored vehicles: This involves knowing the vehicle inside and out, performing preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting mechanical problems.
Performing gunnery drills: Tankers undergo extensive training to become proficient in using the tank's weapons systems, ensuring accuracy and effectiveness under various conditions.
Executing tactical maneuvers: As part of a larger unit, tankers must work in coordination with other soldiers to achieve objectives on the battlefield, requiring strategic thinking and communication skills.
Participating in field exercises and deployments: Training and readiness are paramount, involving live-fire exercises, simulations, and potentially overseas deployments.

Path to Becoming an Army Tanker: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Meet the Basic Requirements

Before you even think about climbing into a tank, you need to meet the Army's basic enlistment requirements. This includes:

Age: You must be between 17 and 35 years old (with parental consent if under 18).
Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
Education: A high school diploma or GED is typically required.
Physical Fitness: You'll need to pass the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT) and meet height and weight standards. Tankers need to be physically strong to handle the demands of the job.
ASVAB Score: The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a crucial test. You'll need a specific score to qualify for the 19K (Armor Crewman) MOS (Military Occupational Specialty).

2. Choose Your Enlistment Option

You can enlist in the Army directly as an armored crewman, specifying your desire for the 19K MOS during the enlistment process. You may also consider joining the National Guard or Army Reserve if you want to balance military service with civilian life.

3. Basic Combat Training (BCT)

Once enlisted, you’ll begin Basic Combat Training (BCT). This rigorous 10-week program will prepare you for the physical and mental demands of military life. You'll learn basic soldiering skills, including weapons training, physical fitness, and teamwork.

4. Advanced Individual Training (AIT)

After BCT, you'll move on to Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for your MOS as an armored crewman. AIT for 19K typically lasts around 16 weeks and includes:

Tank operation: Learning how to drive, maneuver, and maintain various types of tanks.
Gunnery skills: Becoming proficient in using the tank's main gun and other weapons systems.
Maintenance and repair: Learning how to diagnose and fix mechanical problems.
Tactical training: Understanding battlefield strategies and coordinating with other crew members.

5. Unit Assignment and Continued Training

Upon completing AIT, you'll be assigned to an armored unit. This is where your real-world training begins. You'll continue to hone your skills through regular training exercises, including field maneuvers and live-fire exercises.

What to Expect as an Army Tanker

Life as an Army tanker is challenging, demanding, and rewarding. Expect:

Physical demands: The job requires strength, endurance, and the ability to work long hours in physically demanding conditions.
Teamwork: Tank crews function as a tightly knit team, requiring excellent communication and trust.
Technical skills: You'll need to be mechanically inclined and comfortable working with complex machinery.
Deployment potential: Tank units may be deployed to various locations worldwide.

Is Being an Army Tanker Right for You?

Consider these questions:

Do you enjoy working with machinery and technology?
Are you physically fit and willing to work hard?
Do you thrive in a team environment?
Are you comfortable with the potential for deployment?

If you answered yes to most of these questions, a career as an Army tanker might be the perfect fit. It's a challenging but incredibly rewarding path for those seeking a career filled with adventure, responsibility, and the satisfaction of serving their country. Remember to research specific Army requirements and consult a recruiter for the most up-to-date information.