The vagaries of rotation can result in long intervals between two piloting missions of the same type or at the same location.

Thirteen typical missions have been identified based on the specific challenges they represent and/or the limited number of opportunities to perform them on the water. In addition, two maneuvers, mandatory for all pilots, must be completed as they represent an exceptional challenge.

Over a five-year cycle, participants must complete these piloting missions, and those that cannot be performed on the water before the end of the fourth year must be completed and recorded on a simulator during the fifth year.