The Lockheed AC-130 gunship is a heavily armed, long-endurance, ground-attack variant of the C-130 Hercules transport, fixed-wing aircraft. It carries a wide array of ground-attack weapons that are integrated with sensors, navigation, and fire-control systems. Unlike other modern military fixed-wing aircraft, the AC-130 relies on visual targeting.

The AC-130U “Spooky” gunship's primary missions are close air support, air interdiction and force protection. The AC-130 has a rich history that includes support of military operations in Vietnam, Panama and Iraq as well as performing in many combat missions since it was fielded in …

The AC-130U employs synthetic aperture strike radar for long-range and adverse weather target detection and identification. The AC-130's navigational devices include inertial navigation systems and global positioning systems.

Info on the AC-130H and AC-130U gunships operated by USAF Special Operations Squadrons. Read info, specs and view photos.

Jun 29, 2020 · The U.S. Air Force has sent the last AC-130U “Spooky” gunship to the Boneyard, capping a career spanning three decades. The gunship, named “Gunslinger,” was sent to the Arizona desert for what is...

The AC-130 is armed with a fearsome array of weaponry, including a 105 mm cannon and 25 or 40 mm gatling guns. The AC-130U employs a synthetic aperture strike radar for long-range and adverse...

HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- The first AC-130U Spooky gunship to retire from the active fleet flew from its home here following a small ceremony Sept. 21. The gunship, named "Bad Omen," was delivered to Hurlburt Field Feb. 17, 1995.

Aug 15, 2022 · On May 19, 1997, the AC-130U Spooky gunship arrived at Hurlburt Field, Florida. This aircraft earned the nickname "Big Daddy" because it was the father of the AC-130U gunship fleet.

The heavily armed AC-130U Spooky aircraft incorporates side-firing weapons integrated with sophisticated sensor, navigation and fire control systems to provide surgical firepower or area...

Oct 3, 2023 · Page details technical specifications, development, and operational history of the Lockheed AC-130H Spectre / AC-130U Spooky Close Air-Support (CAS) / Air Interdiction / Force Protection Gunship including pictures.