When Size and Cost Know No Limits: The World's Biggest and Most Expensive Military Planes Revealed

4. The Stinger II AC-130W

Service Joined: 1968 Retirement Status: N/A Price: $122 Million The AC-130 family includes several variants, notably the Spooky, Ghostrider, and the AC-130W Stinger. Developed in the 1970s, the Stinger is exclusively operated by the United States Air Force (USAF). This variant is specifically designed for close air support, force protection, and air interdiction missions. The Lockheed Martin Stinger excels in providing close air support, effectively covering ground troops and escorting convoys in urban environments. Its advanced capabilities allow for precision strikes and enhanced situational awareness, making it a critical asset in modern warfare. In conclusion, the AC-130W Stinger plays an essential role in supporting ground operations and ensuring the safety of troops in challenging combat scenarios. Its ongoing use within the USAF highlights the importance of specialized aircraft in achieving mission success and maintaining operational effectiveness.

AC-130W Stinger II The AC-130W Stinger II is a formidable asset in air interdiction operations, capable of engaging both pre-planned and opportunistic targets. This flexibility allows the aircraft to respond effectively to dynamic battlefield conditions. All AC-130 aircraft, including the Stinger II, feature unpressurized cabins, which are designed for enhanced operational efficiency. The weapons are strategically housed on the port side of the fuselage, allowing for effective targeting during missions. During an attack, the gunship can perform a pylon turn, a maneuver that extends its firing range significantly beyond that of other gunships. This capability enhances its effectiveness in providing close air support and engaging enemy forces while minimizing the risk to ground troops. In conclusion, the AC-130W Stinger II is an essential component of modern air operations, offering unmatched versatility in air interdiction and close air support. Its unique design and operational capabilities ensure that it remains a critical asset for the USAF in various combat scenarios.