The Air Defense Artillery (ADA) Officer leads the air defense artillery branch at all levels of command. ADA officers manage modern complicated military computers on complex networks, communications equipment systems, and radars in order to provide warning, detection, and protection for armed forces from aerial attack, missile attack, and aerial surveillance.  ADA officers are responsible for the tactical employment, command and control, and the airspace management of air defense artillery missile and gun units. They must be an expert in tactics, techniques and procedures for the employment of air defense systems.

They also become experts in one or more of the following systems: the Patriot/THAAD missile system; the AVENGER and Counter-Rocket, Mortar, Artillery (C-RAM) system; associated radars; and command and control computer systems.

JOB DUTIES

• Coordinate the Air Defense target engagement process in joint and multinational operations
• Employment of Air Defense Artillery Soldiers at all levels of command
• Evaluate intelligence and identify targets; perform real-time status reporting during combat
• Collect, integrate and process tactical battlefield information from multiple users and sensors through a network of Army and Joint-service automated battle command systems
• Air Defense Artillery tactics, techniques, procedures, and air battle strategy

TRAINING

Job training for an Air Defense Artillery Officer includes completion of the Air Defense Artillery Officer Basic Course. This will provide in-depth knowledge on leadership, tactics and the operational aspects of weapons/vehicles.

Some of the skills you’ll learn are:

• Principles of radar operations and associated target-identification and command and control systems
• Navigate terrain using maps, compass and GPS devices
• Operate digital data and communications networks
• Identify and engage targets electronically
• Air Defense Artillery tactics, techniques, procedures and air battle strategy
• Establish, utilize, and maintain digital, radio and wire communications

HELPFUL SKILLS

• Self-discipline, confidence and intelligence
• Physically and mentally fit to perform under pressure
• Ability to make quick decisions
• Capable of bearing numerous responsibilities
• Ability to multi-task and remain calm in stressful situations
• Ability to adapt to a wide range of working environments
• Interest in work requiring accuracy, critical thinking, and attention to detail
• Interest in technical electronic, mechanical, and computer systems