If you have watched the movie “Olympus Has Fallen,” you will notice the Lockheed AC-130 gunship used to attack the White House. While it may seem lethal in the movie, it is just as lethal in real life. It is interesting to see how a nimble cargo C-130 Hercules was turned into such a formidable weapons platform specializing in the ground attack role. Indeed, the AC-130 “Spooky” and “Ghost Rider” are as badass in real life as they are in the movies.
The Lockheed AC-130 gunship is one of the most formidable aircraft in the United States Air Force arsenal. Its combination of heavy weaponry, advanced sensors, and versatility makes it an unparalleled force in ground support missions.
Armament of the AC-130 Gunship
The AC-130 gunship is equipped with an array of powerful weapons designed for various combat scenarios. The armament includes:
- 25mm GAU-12 Equalizer Gatling Gun: This five-barreled rotary cannon can fire up to 1,800 rounds per minute, making it highly effective against infantry and light vehicles.
- 40mm L/60 Bofors Cannon: This cannon can deliver 120 rounds per minute and is used for medium-range targets. Its explosive shells are capable of destroying armored vehicles and fortified positions.
- 105mm M102 Howitzer: Known as the largest gun mounted on a combat aircraft, this howitzer provides devastating firepower. It can fire ten 50-pound shells per minute, each capable of significant destruction.
Precision-Guided Munitions
In addition to its cannons, the AC-130 gunship carries precision-guided munitions for pinpoint strikes. These include:
- AGM-176 Griffin Missiles: These lightweight, precision-guided missiles are used for engaging targets in urban environments or areas where minimizing collateral damage is essential.
- GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs (SDB): These bombs offer precision targeting and can penetrate hardened structures, making them ideal for destroying bunkers and underground facilities.
Advanced Sensor Suite
The AC-130’s effectiveness is not solely due to its firepower but also its advanced sensor suite, which enhances targeting and situational awareness. Key sensors include:
- AN/AAQ-26 Infrared Detection Set (IDS): This sensor provides high-resolution thermal imaging, allowing the crew to detect and engage targets in complete darkness or adverse weather conditions.
- AN/ASQ-145 Low-Light TV System (LLTV): This electro-optical sensor enhances the gunship’s capability to identify and track targets in low-light conditions, providing clear visuals during night operations.
Radar and Targeting Systems
- AN/APQ-150 Radar: This radar system offers terrain-following and ground-mapping capabilities, essential for navigating and identifying targets in complex environments.
- AN/AVQ-26 Pave Tack: This laser designator and tracker system enables the precise delivery of laser-guided munitions, ensuring high accuracy in target engagement.
Operational Versatility
The AC-130 gunship’s combination of heavy weaponry and advanced sensors allows it to perform various missions, including close air support (CAS), air interdiction, and armed reconnaissance. Its ability to loiter over targets for extended periods provides continuous support to ground forces, making it indispensable in combat situations.
The presence of an AC-130 gunship on the battlefield has a profound psychological impact on enemy forces. Its reputation for precision and overwhelming firepower often deters enemy movements and reduces their morale.
I guess this would be the perfect aircraft against extremists and terrorism; however, it is very susceptible to ground fire due to its low speed and high signature. How long will it stay in service? With the advent of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), it may not be around for long, but nevertheless, I still hope they keep a few flying.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
