An AC-130 gunship from 73rd Special Operations Squadron flew a training mission May 30 from Hulbert Field, Fla. to international waters off the coast of Panama. The training evolution marked the first time in over ten years that an aircraft of this type has flown to the region. The flight demonstrates the U.S. capability to respond to crisis or conflict rapidly and effectively. The AC-130J gunship, also known as, “Ghostrider,” is the primary weapon of Air Force Special Operations Command. Its primary missions are close air support, air interdiction and armed reconnaissance. The J model is an upgraded version of the U and is equipped with side firing, trainable 30 mm and 105 mm guns as well as special operations precision guided munitions.
