Officially labeled as The Norio Pilot Corps, EX-35 pilots are the primary operators of the space jets and are employed by Norio as the primary offensive force against Xenos. They are seen all over the world as the knights of the sky and are in their own right, icons that people aspire to be like. Some pilots have their own reputations and even fan bases similar to that of modern celebrities. Each of Norio's geographic areas of responsibility maintain a force of about 90,000 pilots.
Under international law, Norio pilots are UN peacekeepers as their work and jurisdiction is worldwide.
All pilots of the EX-35 first enter their respective nations flight school to learn not only the functions of their jet, but also combat skills such as martial arts, counter terrorism, and electronic warfare. As they not only combat Xenos, but human threats such as insurgent groups, corrupt governments, and other groups that threaten Norio. Pilot training usually lasts on average six months, with a low washout rate but high expectations. They then sign a contract binding them to a 12 year commitment to the organization, one that can be extended at the end for an additional 12 years before retiring. On average, pilots who enlist from the moment they graduate high school tend to retire in their mid to late 40's.
One common trait that most EX-35 operators share is that they are mostly young adults. Branches such as Europe, Korea, and Japan receive pilots from high school graduates to ones in their early to mid 20's. This is simply because young adults develop a more stable connection with their jet's AI system than most older ones, as well as having much more endurance to put up with the training and skills in flying.
Pilots are also given enormous amounts of flexibility and autonomy to take advantage of because they use the world's most dangerous aircraft. They are often allowed to customize their squadron symbols and can openly carry their pistols both on and off duty.
Pilots also get the chance to see more of the world and Sol system given that Norio has bases big and small all over Earth and in space, from which pilots can receive orders almost anywhere. Despite the good reputation that they receive, Norio pilots are not without critics. It is common knowledge that most civilians will not fight against them given their influence and authority.
The influence of pilots and their stature as soldiers of the United Nations is similar to that of the prestige and power held by historical groups. Ranging from Spartans, samurai, knights, and nobility. This granting of authority by the UN has caused some pilots to be hated by the civilian population but nevertheless, there are those that still see them as hope for humanity.
Their role in combating Xenos is dangerous, dark, and often violent. But despite this a lot of pilots seem to enjoy their work due to the perks and hazard pay they receive in return. As well as the fame and praise some of them take advantage of.
Female Norio Pilots:
Initially, when Norio was first established its combat operations on the frontlines were largely male dominated as women were barred from serving as fighter pilots, instead serving in auxiliary support roles. As many Norio executives feared that the loss of women would have a profound impact on nations population sizes. There was also a heavy presence of political opposition to women in combat roles.
This however changed down the road when, due to a shortage of pilots and the onslaught of a Class A Xeno over Eastern Europe, a select number of females were trained by Norio's European branch and had to convince high command they could serve. Given their chance, they did not disappoint. The all female fighter squadron were able to single handily eradicate the Xeno over the continent and keep the country of Belarus safe.
This act of valor earned the females within Norio a massive amount of respect and admiration by both the civilian population and Norio, and since then, women have served proudly in the UN paramilitary agency. One of the more famous units is Diva Squadron, one of the first all-female units within Norio.