Boeing Starts AC-130U Gunship Flight Testing

The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] has begun flight testing the AC-130U Gunship with new 30 mm cannons at Hurlburt Field, Fla.

Boeing is modifying four gunships for the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command by installing and testing the cannons so existing airplanes have increased combat effectiveness. The AC-130U features increased weapon stand-off range, improved first-shot accuracy, and a suite of electronic and infrared countermeasures that greatly enhance its survivability. Boeing will deliver the gunships later this year.

The Bushmaster 30 mm cannons protrude from the gun ports of AC-130U gunships as shown during tests in January at Hurlburt Field. The 30 mm cannon eventually will replace both the 40 mm cannon and 25 mm gun on U-model gunships.