Will this level of astigmatism prevent DS joining the British Army?

[LeicesterDad]

Hi everyone,

DS is applying to join the army. We have just got his optometrist report back from the optician and it says he has astigmatism of -2.5 dioptres in his right eye and -3.5 dioptres in his left eye. The form says that the maximum permissible in +3.0 to -3.0.

I know the answer is to send the form in to his recruiter and ask them, but as it is Sunday and DS is really upset, I wondered if anybody on MN would know from their own experience how big an issue this is. I have done a Google search which seems to suggest there is some flexibility and it may only be certain roles he would be excluded from (such as being a pilot), but it is difficult to find anything reliable.

Would be grateful if anybody can help put our minds to rest one way or the other until we can speak to his recruiter in the week.

Thanks a lot.

Is that astigmatism or his level of short sight?
What is the full prescription?

@dementedpixie They refer to it as astigmatism but I am not an expert. The full prescription is:

Right Eye: Sph +1.50; Cyl -2.50; Axis 15
Left Eye: Sph +2.50; Cyl -3.50; Axis 160

The limit mentioned on the form is to cylindrical error so it is the -3.50 for his left eye which is the concern.

He is only 16 and laser surgery is not available until 18.

Really not sure but they may have the ability to select a different career pathway/regiment with different criteria.

Worth checking the navy requirements too if the army says no because they sometimes are more flexible though I'm not sure about this

Thanks. This is the general form for all Army applications, and that is what I hoping - that they will say this is the list of jobs you can do and this is the list that you cannot. He wants to be groundcrew working with all the kit rather than flying the planes or driving the tanks.

He will be gutted if he is told he has two wait two more years to get laser surgery. He has been dreaming of this for years!

I hope that doesn't stop him. I honestly have no idea about that but, if it does, have him take a look at the RAF Regiment. Different medical requirements (I believe much less strict) and they are the section of the RAF who most mirror the army in terms of job role.
Also, Army Air Corps

Have you an update on this. Just come back from opticians with my 16yr oldson, he has the same, Cyl in left eye of -3.5 and right eye -3. We have the same concerns and cant enquire as its a Saturday. The optician said his glasses correct this...It's going to be a long weekend.....