FORT INDIANTOWN GAP, Pa. - As modern battlefields evolve, the Army’s ability to detect, track and defeat aerial threats remains critical to mission success.
Soldiers serving as air defense battle management system operators stand at the forefront of that fight, integrating technology, intelligence and decision-making to protect forces and key assets from airborne threats.
These Soldiers operate sophisticated air defense command and control systems that monitor airspace, identify potential threats and coordinate engagement operations.
Working within the Army Air Defense Artillery community, they ensure friendly forces maintain air superiority and remain protected against enemy aircraft, drones, and missile systems. Their motto is: “If it flies, it dies.”
“The mission of a 14G is to provide an early warning to our forces on any incoming aerial threats,” said Pfc. Joshua Martin, an air defense Soldier with Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 28th Infantry Division. “This is accomplished through the use of our Sentinel radar system.”
The AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar system is designed to detect, track and classify airborne threats. It is the main radar system for an air defense battle management system operator. It is designed to track larger aerial tracks, like planes, helicopters, missiles and larger unmanned aircraft systems, like the MQ-9 Reaper.
Due to its limited capabilities in tracking smaller aerial threats, like small UASs, air defense battle management system operators work with joint forces, like the Air Force, for their short-range radar capabilities that track smaller aircraft.
Whether deployed overseas or supporting homeland defense missions, air defense battle management system operators serve as a critical link between sensors and shooters.
“When deployed overseas, our mission is critical,” said Staff Sgt. Nicholas Lomison, a 14G section leader with Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 28th Infantry Division. “We are the first line of defense for ourselves and our allies, and our success is critical for mission success.”
Their expertise ensures commanders have a clear operational picture and the ability to respond decisively to aerial threats.
For Soldiers interested in technology, systems integration, and tactical operations, air defense battle management system operations offers a challenging and rewarding career that plays a vital role in defending the force and securing the skies.