At a glance
- Soldier
- combat
Use the latest systems to get crucial information to troops. Learn about IT, get qualifications and work with people who’ll become mates for life.
As a Gunner working on Artillery Command Systems, you pass vital information from spy planes and special observers to soldiers who control artillery and rockets. You will ensure the Artillery network of communication stays up and running, working with cutting edge radios and IT systems. Everything you do must be completely accurate, and you'll need to think on your feet and act quickly. You’ll learn the ropes with first-class training and work towards qualifications that are recognised outside the Army. Sports, travel and Adventurous Training mean fun, fitness and a fascinating Army life.
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.
Key Responsibilities
Control sophisticated communication systems
Be a vital link between all troops operating on the battlefield
Direct missiles and rockets
Play an essential part in mission success
Have any questions? Talk with us
Reserve (part time)
Entry requirements
Age:
From 18 years & 0 months to 42 years & 6 months
Qualifications:
Qualifications: No formal qualifications needed
Basic physical fitness assessment:
Mid Thigh Pull 50kg
Medicine Ball Throw 2.7m
MSFT (beep test) level 6.6
Army Reserve standards
Mid Thigh Pull: 50kg
Medicine Ball Throw: 2m 70cm
MSFT (beep test): Level 5 shuttle 8
Training for the role
Step 1
You start Basic Training, this consists of two main courses and some online training packages. You can book on the courses to fit around your daily life, so it could take you several months to finish your basic training.
Module 1: Foundation Training. 5 alternate residential weekends Fri - Sun at an Army training centre OR a nine-day residential course.
Module 2: Battlecamp. 15-day residential course at an Army training establishment. You will learn fieldcraft, Skill at Arms, fitness training, qualities of a soldier, military knowledge, Battlefield casualty drills, individual health and education. This will culminate with a Passing Off Parade which your family and friends can attend to celebrate your success.
Step 2
Specialist Phase 2 training turns you into a Gunner. You learn the IT skills and tactical awareness you need for life in a battlefield HQ. 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.
Qualifications you could get after training
HGV truck licence
Tracked-vehicle driving licence
Computer Literacy and IT Stage 1 (CLAIT)
European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)
Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM)
Pay & benefits
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.
How to Apply
When you decide to apply, your local unit will help you through the process - you don't need to wait until you've finished Army Assessment to get involved.
To join, you have to apply online. 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.