TechSpecial ops showcase. AC-130J Ghostrider's precision in Balikatan2024
Special ops showcase. AC‑130J Ghostrider's precision in Balikatan2024
During exercises codenamed Balikatan2024, the 27th Special Operations Wing showcased its capabilities by attacking over-water targets. We delve into the reasons behind its use and highlight the achievements of this remarkable aircraft.
The exercises were carried out in collaboration with the USAF and the Filipino armed forces, testing the AC-130J Ghostrider's ability to target vessels, particularly those of the Chinese coastal guard.
The AC-130J Ghostrider is a highly specialized aircraft operated by the United States Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), designed to provide direct air support to special forces.
Originally based on the C-130 Hercules transport plane, the aircraft has been outfitted with an arsenal for attacking ground or naval targets. The creation of such a machine was necessitated by the limitations of conventional assault aircraft, like the A-10 Thunderbolt II, which can only attack a target briefly before having to circle back. Furthermore, these aircraft are hampered by their limited ammunition capacity.
In contrast, the C-130 can continuously circle a target area, providing sustained fire support from its onboard weapons system, which also boasts a substantial ammunition capacity. Remarkably, the aircraft has a range of over 5,000 kilometres without needing in-flight refuelling, though this remains an option if necessary.
Its primary weapons include the Precision Strike Package (PSP), featuring a Mk44 Bushmaster automatic cannon with a 30mm calibre and the M102 howitzer with a 105mm calibre. However, plans are in place to phase out the howitzer to accommodate more precision weaponry, such as AGM-176 Griffin missiles, AGM-114 Hellfire, GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs, Tactical Off-Board Sensor (TOBS) reconnaissance drones, or potentially future laser weapons.
