The Royal Artillery is the heart of the action - everywhere across the battlefield - providing the British Army with its eyes, ears and firepower. Using high-tech surveillance devices and uncrewed aircraft, the Royal Artillery finds the enemy. We then monitor them before striking decisively. We do this by co-ordinated use of our guns, rockets and missiles, the Army’s attack helicopters and other weapons, including fast jets and even the guns of Royal Navy ships.

Once your online application has been approved, you'll meet with a local recruiter. This is your chance to tell us about the role that you're interested in. When you go to the Assessment Centre, you'll take tests - the results will show whether you'd be suitable for this role, or should consider a different role.

 will help you through the process - you don't need to wait until you've finished Army Assessment to get involved.

. The application process will take some time, but you can also ring the unit you're interested in joining - the team there will help often invite you to join them for drill nights, and you'll get support for your application.

The Sky Sabre (Regular Army only) and High Velocity Missile weapon systems are used to defend against cruise missiles, jets, attack helicopters and drones.  As an Air Defence Gunner, you’ll use these hi-tech weapons to protect sites like airfields, supply depots and headquarters. You'll learn how to spot enemy aircraft and target them for attack; we’ll teach you everything you need to know. In time you could attempt the arduous P Company course and join the battery which supports the Parachute Regiment. Plus, you can get an HGV licence, IT qualifications and leadership skills. With all this plus worldwide travel, great mates, sports and adventurous training, it’s an experience like no other.

You'll earn £26,334 a year from the start of your training, which will go up as you progress throughout your career.

You'll get paid a day rate according to your rank, starting from £63.27 in training and once you're a Private and increasing as you rise through the ranks. This includes being paid for weekly drill nights. Plus, if you complete all of your annual training, you're entitled to a tax-free lump sum called a bounty.

Defend troops from air attacks taking charge of the Rapier, a guided missile system.

Gunner - Air Defence Rapier

As a Reservist defend troops from air attacks taking charge of the Rapier, a guided missile system.

Gunner - Air Defence Rapier - Reserve

“There’s no denying that it's hard work, but there are plus-points too. During my last tour, I got to learn lots of new skills and gained loads of valuable experience on our equipment. I enjoyed meeting new people from different countries and backgrounds, and getting the chance to experience life in other countries.”

Air Defence Gunner

Your initial military training teaches you how to be a soldier, covering everything from fieldcraft to how to handle a rifle.

Then it’s off to Larkhill in Wiltshire to become a qualified Gunner. Over 15 weeks, you do military training and sport, learn to drive a car and trailer, and do a cross-country driving course. You also learn to use Army communication systems. You then join 16 Regiment Royal Artillery, Thorney Island in West Sussex, and learn to use the Army's air defence systems.

Basic training takes place over a series of weekends or on residential camps. You learn vital soldiering skills, such as how to survive outdoors and fire weapons.

Phase 2 training turns you into a Gunner. The 15-week programme also teaches you how to drive a Land Rover cross country and operate a cutting-edge digital communications system. Most of the training fits around your day job.

Air Defence Gunner - Reserve

Role details

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About the Role

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Qualifications You'll Earn