U.S. Bolsters Caribbean Anti-Narcotics Mission with Advanced AC-130J Gunship
CEIBA, PUERTO RICO – the United States has significantly increased its firepower in the Caribbean Sea with the deployment of the AC-130J Ghostrider gunship, as part of its ongoing anti-narcotics mission initiated under President Donald Trump. The advanced aircraft, confirmed to be operating in the region by a U.S. Air Force photograph taken October 6 by Senior Airman Gabriel Jones at Ceiba, Puerto Rico, brings unparalleled precision strike capabilities to counter illicit trafficking.
Military analysts, including Tyler Rogoway of TWZ, have identified the GhostriderS signature in recent engagements, specifically noting its likely involvement in disabling a semi-submersible vessel in Caribbean waters last week with two 30 mm cannon rounds.
The AC-130J Ghostrider is a modified C-130J designed as an “expeditionary direct and persistent fire platform,” according to the U.S. Air Force. Its primary missions encompass close air support, aerial interdiction, and armed reconnaissance. Equipped with the Precision Strike package, the ghostrider boasts precision-guided munitions, a trainable 30 mm weapon, and a 105 mm cannon.
The aircraft’s advanced digital avionics and design allow for “extremely accurate” operation even in challenging environments, making it suitable for both ground and maritime interdiction operations. Developed jointly by Lockheed and Boeing, the ghostrider represents a key asset in the U.S.’s efforts to disrupt drug trafficking in the Caribbean.
