What is the typical rank of a squadron commander?

• A. Captain
• B. Major
• C. Lieutenant Colonel
• D. Colonel

Answer: (C)

Squadron command requires a level of leadership and breadth of responsibility that comes with a field-grade officer. A lieutenant colonel has the experience and authority to oversee a squadron’s personnel, aircraft, training, safety, and mission execution across multiple flights and programs, and to coordinate with higher headquarters. Captains typically lead a flight or serve in junior leadership roles within the squadron; majors usually fill senior staff or operations/officer roles rather than command of the squadron itself; colonels command larger formations such as groups or wings, not a single squadron. For these reasons, the typical rank for a squadron commander is lieutenant colonel.