noun
staff sergeant (JASDF)
A non-commissioned officer rank in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, equivalent to a staff sergeant. Used in military contexts.
彼は三等空曹に昇進した。
He was promoted to staff sergeant (JASDF).
三等空曹として整備の任務に就いている。
As a staff sergeant, he is assigned to maintenance duties.
Compound of 三等 (third class) and 空曹 (air non-commissioned officer), a modern rank term created for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.