Fighter jet pilots do carry guns in case they have to eject or land in enemy territory. The type of gun carried depends on the mission and can range from a handgun to an assault rifle. Generally, fighter jets are equipped with either a 9mm pistol or an M4 carbine rifle for self-defense if needed.

In 2026, U.S. Air Force fighter pilots do not typically "shoot guns" from the cockpit in a traditional handheld sense, but they are extensively trained in the use of small arms for survival scenarios. When flying over hostile territory or on combat missions, pilots are issued a sidearm—standardly the SIG Sauer M18 (a compact version of the M17)—as part of their survival vest. This weapon is intended for self-defense and signaling if they are shot down and must evade capture on the ground. Within the aircraft itself, the pilot operates the plane's integrated weaponry, such as the M61A2 Vulcan 20mm rotary cannon, which is fired via a "trigger" on the flight stick. While modern aerial combat is dominated by long-range missiles, "dogfighting" with the internal gun remains a core skill. Additionally, Air Force pilots must regularly qualify on the firing range with both pistols and rifles to maintain their combat readiness, ensuring they are prepared for ground survival should their mission end in an ejection behind enemy lines.