Marine Corps
COMBAT

MOS

7212

Low Altitude Air Defense (LAAD) Gunner

Description

LAAD Gunners serve in ground-based air defense (GBAD) units with the mission to provide surface-to-air fires in support of MAGTF critical assets from threat unmanned aerial systems, missiles, and fixed and rotary wing aircraft. Gunners are responsible for employment and maintenance of all equipment and weapon systems inherent to a LAAD Battalion. Gunners will provide air base ground security when not engaged in air defense operations.

Core Skills

  • tactical radio communications
  • sensor and weapons system operation
  • situational awareness and threat tracking
  • checklist and procedure execution
  • equipment preventive maintenance
  • basic electronics and power management
  • map reading and geolocation
  • reporting and log keeping
  • team coordination under stress
  • risk assessment in field operations
  • adherence to rules of engagement
  • basic security practices for comms equipment

Common Certifications

  • Physical Security Professional (PSP)
  • Certified Protection Professional (CPP)
  • Executive Protection Certification
  • Firearms Instructor Certification
  • Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) or EMT
  • FEMA Emergency Management Institute Certifications (ICS 100/200/700/800)
  • State POST Certification

Civilian Career Paths

  • PRIVATE SECURITY
  • NETWORK OPERATIONS
  • TELECOMMUNICATIONS
  • MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

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Equivalent Roles in Other Branches

Data sourced from official Marine Corps publications and public military occupational references. Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.