Insertion/Extraction

The AC-130 is a C-130 specially modified for Air Force Special Operations Command. When required, it provides fire support for Navy SEALs in combat situations. Its primary mission is Close Air Support, and it can precisely deliver ordnance extremely close to friendly forces in contact with an enemy. The AC-130 has 105 mm artillery (like a cannon), and sophisticated targeting systems (sensors and infrared). AC-130 gunships also have enhanced navigation systems, sophisticated communications, defensive systems, and inflight refueling capability. The AC-130 can receive Predator UAV video to find and fix targets, while staying at a safe distance until they are identified.

The AC-130H Spectre gunship's primary missions are close air support, air interdiction and armed reconnaissance. Secondary missions are perimeter and point defense, escort, landing, drop and extraction zone support, forward air control, and combat search and nrescue. These formidable aircraft have side-firing weapons integrated with sophisticated sensor, navigation and fire control systems to provide surgical firepower or area saturation during extended periods, in day or night, and in all weather conditions.

The new AC-130U Spectre gunship is being fielded to supplement the AC-130H gunship fleet. Its mission is to support conventional and joint special operations forces (J-SOF) any time, any place. The AC-130U is armed with a 25mm Gatling-gun capable of firing 1800 rounds per minute, a single-barrel, rapid-fire 40mm Bofors cannon, and a 105mm Howitzer. The AC-130U replaced the two 20mm cannon used on the AC-130H with one trainable 25mm cannon while retaining the other weapons. The AC-130U employs the latest technologies and can attack two targets simultaneously.