The much-anticipated integration of a laser directed energy weapon onto the AC-130J Ghostrider gunship has been abruptly halted by the U.S. Air Force, citing technical challenges and shifting priorities. This decision marks a significant departure from the initial plan to equip the AC-130J with cutting-edge airborne laser capabilities.
The Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) confirmed the cancellation of plans to test the prototype Airborne High Energy Laser (AHEL) system on the AC-130J, revealing that technical setbacks during ground testing prevented the timely integration onto the designated aircraft.
Lockheed Martin, the prime contractor for the AHEL program, had received the initial contract in 2019 to supply the laser source and lead the integration efforts onto the AC-130J platform. However, despite significant investments and efforts, the program faced persistent delays, ultimately leading to its cancellation.
The cancellation of the AHEL program comes amidst broader reassessments of the AC-130J’s capabilities, with discussions underway regarding the removal of the gunship’s 105mm howitzers. This proposed change reflects a shift in focus from counter-insurgency operations to preparations for high-end conflicts, particularly in the Pacific region.
The decision to potentially remove the 105mm howitzers underscores the evolving role of the AC-130J in future conflicts. Originally intended for precision-guided missile and bomb employment, the gunship’s armament package is undergoing reevaluation to align with emerging strategic priorities.
While the cancellation of the AHEL program represents a setback in the quest for advanced directed energy weapons, the Air Force remains committed to exploring other avenues for enhancing the AC-130J’s capabilities. Plans to integrate a new active electronically-scanned array (AESA) radar aim to enhance the gunship’s ability to detect, target, and engage threats at longer ranges with greater precision.
Moreover, ongoing efforts to develop and field other directed energy weapons, including ground-based systems for base defense, signify the Air Force’s enduring commitment to technological innovation and modernization.
Despite the cancellation of the laser weapon program, the AC-130J’s evolution continues, with discussions ongoing regarding the potential integration of precision-guided munitions and other stand-off capabilities. As the strategic landscape evolves, the AC-130J remains a versatile and adaptable platform, poised to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s conflicts.
In the ever-changing landscape of military technology, setbacks such as the cancellation of the AHEL program serve as reminders of the complexities and uncertainties inherent in the pursuit of cutting-edge capabilities. As the Air Force navigates these challenges, the AC-130J stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of America’s air power.
For further information on the future of the AC-130J and its evolving capabilities, stay tuned for updates from AFSOC and the U.S. Special Operations Command.