On 17 February 1972, the first 105mm cannon arrived for service with Spectre and was installed on Gunship 570. It was used from mid-February until the aircraft received battle damage to its right flap.

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

The AC-130A Spectre is a C-130 converted to a gunship, primarily for night attacks against ground targets. To enhance its armament's effectiveness, it used various sensors, a target acquisition …

On 24 May 1969, Spectre lost its first gunship and two crew members. At the very moment the aircraft was hit, the 16 SOS sustained its first KIA--the illuminator operator, who died from exploding AAA …

Jul 12, 2024 · Summary and Key Points: The AC-130 “Spectre” gunship, also known as “Spooky,” is a heavily armed aircraft born out of necessity during the Vietnam War to provide close-air support …

AC-130A Spectre (Project Gunship II, Surprise Package, Pave Pronto): These were conversions of C-130As; 19 were completed, then transferred to the Air Force Reserve in 1975 and retired in 1995.

Continuing the distinguished combat history of side-firing AC-130 gunships, the new AC-130U Spectre gunship is being fielded as a replacement for the AC-130A aircraft. This program acquires 13 new …

Dec 29, 2025 · The AC-130 gunship has a combat history dating to Vietnam. Gunships destroyed more than 10,000 trucks and were credited with many life-saving close air support missions.

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 …

The AC-130H “Spectre” gunships were fielded in 1972 and retired in 2015. The last AC-130U was flown to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, June 26, 2020, for retirement.