![]() ![]() Gunship development progressed from the AC-47 through the AC-119G/K models, to the AC-130A during the Vietnam era. In the face of heavier ground fire, the Air Force responded by improving avionics and increasing gunship firepower to permit it to operate at higher and safer altitudes. Although the gunship was vulnerable to enemy ground fire, it had the advantage of being able to keep a target under constant fire by executing its signature orbit overhead. However, once a C-47 was equipped and tested in Vietnam, the results were convincing. This radical concept, calling for a transport with side firing guns, met considerable initial opposition within the Air Force. The AC-130 performed its interdiction and close air support missions in an outstanding manner and proved to be the most effective "truck killer" in the war. The most important special operations development which came out of the Vietnam War was the gunship - the AC-47, the AC-119, and at its best, the AC-130.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |