In the context of aviation and aerospace, "Air Defense Artillery" (ADA) refers to a branch of the military responsible for defending against airborne threats, such as aircraft, missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The primary mission of Air Defense Artillery is to protect friendly forces, assets, and territories from aerial attacks.

Air Defense Artillery units are equipped with various weapon systems, including:

1. Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs): These are ground-based missile systems that can engage and destroy enemy aircraft and missiles.
2. Anti-Aircraft Guns: These are cannons that fire projectiles to destroy or disable enemy aircraft.
3. Short-Range Air Defense (SHORAD) systems: These are mobile systems that provide point defense against low-flying aircraft and helicopters.
4. Medium-Range Air Defense systems: These systems provide defense against medium-altitude threats, such as cruise missiles and fighter aircraft.

The role of Air Defense Artillery involves:

1. Detecting and tracking airborne threats using radar and other sensors.
2. Identifying and classifying enemy aircraft and missiles.
3. Engaging and destroying enemy aircraft and missiles using various weapon systems.
4. Providing air defense support to ground units and other military assets.

Air Defense Artillery units often work in conjunction with other military branches, such as the Air Force, to provide a layered air defense system. This involves coordinating efforts to detect, track, and engage airborne threats, ensuring the protection of friendly forces and assets.

In the United States, the Air Defense Artillery branch is part of the Army, and its units are equipped with various air defense systems, including the Patriot Missile System, the THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) system, and the Avenger Air Defense System.