Why doesn’t the AC-130 use jet engines?
While jet engines are associated with high speeds and high-altitude flight, the C-130’s missions require reliability, efficiency, and performance at lower speeds and altitudes, which turboprops provide effectively. The AC-130 gunships, particularly the AC-130U Spooky and AC-130J Ghostrider variants, are often referred to as the Angel of Death due to their formidable capabilities and effectiveness in providing close air support and engaging ground targets.The AC-130 is America’s most feared gunship, designed to dominate the battlefield with overwhelming firepower. Operated by the U. S. Air Force, this heavily armed aircraft combines precision, endurance, and destructive capability unmatched by any other gunship.With four 3,750-hp engines—soon to be uprated to 4,050 apiece—the C-130 was one of the most overpowered aircraft in the military inventory. It could literally fly on one engine.
How many engines does AC-130 need to fly?
If a C-130 were to lose 3 of its 4 engines in flight, the crew will be working their a***s off to keep the plane flying. Single engine performance is based on many factors such as aircraft weight, air temperature, whether the operating motor is inboard or outboard, and a dozen other factors. The C-130 is a four-engine turboprop aircraft, which means that it uses propellers driven by gas turbines to generate thrust.
How far can AC-130 fly without refueling?
HC-130J – Coast Guard – This Hercules is used for long-range search and rescue missions. At 33,000 feet, it cruises at 374 mph, and it can go an impressive 5,000 miles without refueling. The tanks powered the C-130Js all the way from west Texas to Hawaii without stopping, a previously “unheard of” feat in the Super Hercules, Leach said.HC-130J – Coast Guard – This Hercules is used for long-range search and rescue missions. At 33,000 feet, it cruises at 374 mph, and it can go an impressive 5,000 miles without refueling.