The Lockheed AC-130 gunship is a heavily armed, long-endurance ground-attack variant of the C-130 Hercules transport fixed-wing aircraft. It carries a wide array of anti-ground oriented weapons that are integrated with sophisticated sensors, navigation, and fire-control systems. Unlike other military fixed-wing aircraft, the AC-130 relies on visual targeting. Because its large profile and low operating altitudes (around 7,000 ft) make it an easy target, it usually flies close air support missions at night.

Video showing several versions of the US AC-130, the AC-130U Spooky, and the AC-130W Stinger II, while in action during live fire exercise as part of the Emerald Warrior 2016 annual exercise in Hurlburt Field, Florida. The equipment use here: the GAU-12 Equalizer 25mm (for the AC-130U) cannons, 30 mm Bushmaster cannons (for the W version), Bofors 40 mm auto cannons, and 105mm M102 cannon.