The AC-130W Stinger II Precision Strike Package modification provides ground forces an expeditionary, persistent direct-fires platform that delivers precision low-yield munitions, ideally suited for close air support and urban operations.

Air interdiction missions are conducted against preplanned targets or targets of opportunity and include strike coordination and reconnaissance. Close air support missions include troops in contact, convoy escort and point air defense. military routinely disputes the methodology and sourcing of the U.N.’s findings.The AC-130W Stinger II primary missions are close air support and air interdiction. forces, were the leading cause of noncombatant deaths in Afghanistan during the first half of the year, killing more than 360 people, the United Nations said in a July report. airstrike in 2015 that killed 30 people at a Doctors Without Borders hospital in Kunduz province, which was largely blamed on human error.Īirstrikes, most of which were conducted by U.S. Spooky, the Ghostrider’s predecessor, received notoriety after a U.S. “This is very good now, that they are using the latest and well-equipped airplanes,” Nooristani said. The new planes and their upgraded sensors will help support Afghan commandos while preventing civilian casualties, said Abdul Ghafar Nooristani, spokesman for Afghan special forces. The Ghostrider also has upgraded sensors that provide a better battlefield view in the air and on the ground, Smith said in a phone call from Hurlburt Field, Fla. “Even if the gunship doesn’t fire one round, it still provides that utility.” “Them hearing the sound of the gunship overhead, that in many ways serves to embolden them,” Fry said of Afghan forces, who remain heavily reliant on U.S. The Ghostrider’s ability to unleash hell, including from its 105 mm howitzer and 30 mm autocannon, have helped Afghan forces both on the battlefield and psychologically, Fry said.

Edward Fry, enlisted leader alongside Taylor at the air component command.Īir Force officials have called the $115 million Ghostrider “the ultimate battle plane” due to its arsenal of cannons, missiles and laser-guided bombs. “The Ghostriders have saved lives,” said Chief Master Sgt. The new aircraft’s missions are part of an increase in the pace of the air war following the collapse of peace talks between the United States and the Taliban in early September, and a vow by President Donald Trump “to hit our enemy harder” than ever before. This amounts to 218 sorties and 1,380 hours in the skies over Afghanistan, he said.

Air force ac-130 gunship