The AC-130J is the fifth-generation gunship that replaced the fleet of AC-130U/W gunships. AC-130 gunships have an extensive combat history dating back to Vietnam where gunships destroyed more than 10,000 trucks and were credited …

The AC-130J has two planned increments: the Block 10 configuration includes an internal 30 mm gun, small diameter bombs, and laser-guided missiles launched from the rear cargo door; and Block 20 configuration adds a 105 mm cannon, large aircraft infrared countermeasures, wing-mounted Hellfire missiles, and radio-frequency countermeasures.

The AC-130J provides ground forces an expeditionary, direct-fire platform that is persistent, ideally suited for urban operations and delivers precision low-yield munitions against ground targets. The AC-130J is a highly modified C-130J aircraft that contains many advanced features.

The AC-130J Ghostrider is a new addition to Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC)'s arsenal. The Ghostrider, which is currently under development, is a gunship created by adding a weapons package to a MC-130J Commando II aircraft.

Jul 11, 2024 · AC-130J Ghostrider boasts impressive firepower, can carry 42,000 lbs, and has a PSP. The Ghostrider's armaments include a 30mm GAU-23 gun, 105mm cannon, missiles, and bombs. The Ghostrider's combat history is illustrious, having aided in …

Apr 5, 2025 · For the AC-130J, in particular, being able to address targets relatively quickly far from the current station it is on would allow it to support strikes across a much larger geographical area. Right now the aircraft can drop Small Diameter Bombs at a range of dozens of miles. That would be enhanced massively with a small cruise missile.

5 days ago · U.S. Airmen, assigned to the 4th Special Operations Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, tow an AC-130J Ghostrider gunship after a wash at Hurlburt Field, Florida, Oct. 23, 2024. The 4 SOAMXS is responsible for maintenance on the AC-130J, ensuring the gunship is always mission ready. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Raul Mercado)

AC-130J Ghostrider Executive Summary • Preliminary DOT&E analysis of test data indicates that the AC-130J Ghostrider Block 30 upgrade provides both gun weapon systems the capability to support precision strike missions in a GPS-degraded environment. • The U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) Airborne High Energy Laser (AHEL) system on ...

Aug 10, 2020 · The hybrid AC-130J Ghostrider incorporates the flying proficiencies of the MC-130J and the air-to-ground combat capabilities of the AC-130. It will conduct continuous strike operations, including close air support (CAS) for troops …

Jul 8, 2020 · Page details technical specifications, development, and operational history of the Lockheed AC-130J Ghostrider Ground-Attack / Close-Air Support (CAS) Special Mission Aircraft including pictures.