Not that I doubt you good folk, but has anyone got any proof of this introduction of WO2? Defence Connect link or news article? Gave it a google but couldn’t find anything, so guessing it’s still firmly in the RUMINT camp?
In my case, it’s something I heard in the mess from an RN CPO, but only in relation to TG1, and a subsequent mention by @Horriblelittletechie on here, but it sounds like @Mr_OZ has seen something more official (judging by his comments on what badge will be worn, etc.)
Don’t have the link, but it’s in AVM Shaun Harris’s ‘Head of Branch’ update wef 12 Dec 25. States will make all CT up to FS and FS up to WO2. No implementation date, just that work on this would start in the New Year.
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I suspect that there will need to be a lot of background work before this can go ahead. There will need to be a thorough evaluation of pensions at the very least - & staffing levels against rank / quals?
I’ll give it a year as a minimum.
FSs in technical trades already go straight to OR8 (equivalent to Army WO2s) on promotion from CT, as do other FSs after seven years in rank. CTs are currently on the same NATO rank and pay grades as ‘junior’ FSs on under seven years in rank.
This is more like a rebranding of what rank insignia is worn and what we call people than a fundamental change.
My main concern is the possibly of FS pay topping out at OR7-6 and having to go through another PSB to access OR8-1 (which would currently be automatic after seven years). To avoid that trap, I need it to take at least two years.
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