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- .Armoured AS90 Gunner
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- Regular
Armoured AS90 Gunner
Driving and operating one of the Army’s most powerful weapons – the AS90 self-propelled gun – is an incredible experience. Learn the ropes, take qualifications and enjoy a full Army life.
Royal Artillery
Starting salary
£26,334
Age range
16 - 36
Role details
Everything you need to know about the role, requirements and what you’ll gain.
Age
You can join between the ages of 16 – 36. At the time of your application you will need to be between 15 years & 7 months old and 35 years & 6 months old .
You can start your training as a Junior Soldier at the Army Foundation College from the age of 16 years.
Fitness
Mid Thigh Pull 50kg
Medicine Ball Throw 2.7m
2km run 11 min 30 sec
Education
No formal qualifications needed
Need help?
Unsure about any requirements? Our recruitment team is here to help.
Royal Artillery
The Royal Artillery (RA) are known as Gunners and are responsible for finding and striking the enemy where it counts and providing the British Army with its firepower.
You’re in charge of an awesome machine: the AS90 self-propelled gun. It weighs 45 tonnes, travels at 32 mph and can fire three, 155mm shells up to 15 miles in 10 seconds. You and the five-soldier crew will learn all about this weapon: how to drive it and fire the gun. At the same time, you will get your tracked vehicle driving licence and other qualifications, for example in IT. That way, you can build a career inside or outside the Army. It’s not all hard work though, there’s Adventurous Training, sports and the chance to make great friends.
Key responsibilities
Drive and operate one of the Army's most powerful weapons
Work as part of a very close team
Protect troops on the ground
Step1
Your initial military training teaches you how to be a soldier, covering everything from fieldcraft to how to handle a rifle.
If you join as a Junior Soldier (under 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the basic military training (long) course at Harrogate which will last for 49 weeks.
If you join as a Regular Soldier (over 17 years and 6 months), you’ll do the regular adult basic training.
Step 2
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 do a cross-country driving course. You also learn to use Army communications systems. Then you join your chosen regiment and learn all about the AS90 artillery gun.
You'll earn £26,334 a year from the start of your training, which will go up as you progress throughout your career.
Level 2 Express Delivery Apprenticeship
Tracked-vehicle driving licence
European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)
Computer Literacy and Information Technology Stage 1 (CLAIT)
NVQ in Learning and Development
Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM)
Your application journey
From application to training, you can expect a timeline of around 3-6 months.
Timelines can vary based on individual circumstances.
Online application
Complete your application form online. You'll need details about your education, work history, and why you want to join the Army.
Individual Careers Discussion
Meet with an Army Recruiter who will discuss your application, answer questions, and guide you through the next steps.
Medical Checks
Next you'll have your medical records checked. This could take some time as it's a really important step to make sure it's safe for you to join.
Assessment centre
Attend a 2-day residential assessment where you'll complete fitness tests, cognitive assessments, medical examinations, and team exercises.
Security clearance
Background and security checks are conducted. This can take longer depending on your personal circumstances and history.
Real Army Life
Ask a Soldier
Get honest answers from real soldiers in the roles you’re interested in. Read previously asked questions or ask your own.
The Royal Artillery is a very broad corps… depending on your choice of regiment and specific role will mean that your day to day life will vary significantly… you’ll have frequent opportunities to deploy on overseas exercises… and lots of time to participate in sports and adventure training.
Day to day life in the Royal Artillery is varied. You train, learn new skills and work as part of a team. One day you might be on exercise overseas. Another day you could be improving your fitness or learning new equipment. It keeps things interesting and gives you real-world experience.
Lucy
Royal Artillery
It’s similar to a normal working day, with gyms, food halls and social spaces available on camp.
Living on a base gives you a good balance of structure and normal day‑to‑day life. Your days usually have a routine, like training, work and meals, but there’s also plenty of time to relax. You live close to the people you work with, so there’s a strong sense of community. In the evenings or downtime, you might go to the gym, watch TV, play sport or just catch up with mates. Everything you need is close by, which makes settling in much easier.
Holly J
Royal Adjutant's Corps
Most days you finish work and can spend your evenings however you like, and you’re usually free to go away at weekends.
When you’re not on duty, your time is your own. Many people use evenings and weekends to relax, keep active, or spend time with friends on camp.
James M
Infantry
Most people eat in the mess on a pay-as-you-dine basis, but if you live independently you can cook for yourself.
Most meals are provided for you in the mess during training. It’s a social part of Army life, and makes it easier to focus on your training and routine.
Tori C
Royal Army Medical Services
Phase 1 training will gradually push your limits, both physically and mentally, and you learn a lot about what you’re capable of.
Basic training is where you learn the fundamentals of Army life, from fitness and discipline to teamwork and core soldiering skills. It’s challenging, but you’re supported every step of the way as you build confidence and resilience.
Tori C
Royal Army Medical Services
Your future starts here
Every Armoured AS90 Gunner started exactly where you are now. Take the first step.
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