AC130

The AC-130 is a family of American fixed-wing gunships derived from the C-130 Hercules, designed to provide close air support, air interdiction, and armed reconnaissance. The aircraft uses a left-side firing arrangement, allowing crewed operations to deliver concentrated fire while the aircraft holds a stable, low-altitude trajectory over its target. Typical crew includes pilots, a flight engineer or navigator, a sensor operator, and gunners.

Development and variants: The gunship concept emerged during the Vietnam War, with the first version, the AC-130A Spooky, entering service in the late 1960s. It was followed by the AC-130E Spectre and the AC-130H Spectre II, which introduced upgraded sensors and weapons packages. In the 1990s the AC-130U Spooky II brought modern avionics and precision strike capabilities. A converted MC-130W Stinger II provided an additional gunship option known as the AC-130W Stinger II. The current main production variant is the AC-130J Ghostrider, featuring a modern sensor suite and updated weapons and mission systems.

Roles and capabilities: AC-130 gunships are optimized for delivering sustained, precise fire against ground targets from relatively low altitudes. They are used for close air support, suppression of enemy air defenses, and targeted interdiction. The side-firing design allows the aircraft to orbit or loiter over a target corridor while maintaining a stable firing arc. Modern variants integrate advanced avionics, targeting sensors, and a mix of gun-based and guided munitions to engage a range of targets.

Operational status: The AC-130J Ghostrider remains in active service with the United States Air Force, with legacy versions having seen service in various conflicts. The platform is maintained through modernization programs to extend capability and interoperability with ground forces.