The U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) is considering removing the 105mm cannon from the AC-130J Ghostrider aircraft as early as 2026. This move comes as the Air Force reevaluates the role of the heavily armed gunship following the end of the Afghanistan War and an increased focus on China as a top adversary. AFSOC is also considering other changes to the Ghostrider, such as adding small cruise missiles for standoff strikes, an advanced radar system for improved tracking of ground targets, and communication upgrades to better integrate with joint force command networks. The command aims to enhance the lethality, versatility, and adaptability of the AC-130J in various operational scenarios while remaining a valuable asset within AFSOC. The final decision on the fate of the 105mm cannon has not been made yet, and AFSOC is conducting an analysis through 2025. However, removing the cannon would require significant structural modifications to the aircraft. Some experts believe that the AC-130J may not be viable in a high-intensity conflict with China and suggest leaving the 105mm gun in place on a portion of the fleet for missions in less hostile environments. The potential replacement for the cannon has not been determined, and AFSOC has ruled out using a high-energy laser due to technical limitations. The AC-130J Ghostrider is the latest version of the gunship series and is known for its firepower. AFSOC originally planned to acquire 37 Ghostriders but reduced the procurement to 30 last year. The reconsideration of the 105mm cannon’s role in the Ghostrider is driven by factors such as the changing nature of warfare and budget constraints. AFSOC wants to ensure the aircraft’s capabilities align with future operational requirements and expand its capabilities to support the joint force.
AC-130 Gunship’s 105mm Cannon Faces Potential Removal by US Air Force
