The AC-130 "Spooky II" is a heavily armed gunship used by the U.S. Air Force, primarily operated by Special Operations units. It is a variant of the C-130 Hercules transport aircraft, modified for close air support, air interdiction, and force protection missions. The "Spooky II" is named after the original "Spooky," the AC-47 gunship that was famously used during the Vietnam War.
Equipped with a formidable array of weapons, including a 105mm howitzer, 40mm Bofors cannon, and 25mm GAU-12 Gatling gun, the AC-130 "Spooky II" can deliver precise and overwhelming firepower from above. This aircraft is particularly effective in supporting ground troops in combat, often flying at night and in all weather conditions. The AC-130 has played a critical role in numerous conflicts, including operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria, where its ability to loiter over the battlefield and provide sustained fire support has proven invaluable. The "Spooky II" continues to be a key asset in the U.S. military's arsenal, known for its lethality and precision.