The US Air Force's Special Operations Command (AFSOC) has received the first upgraded Lockheed Martin AC-130J Ghostrider gunship.

In a press release, it is stated that the Block 30 Ghostrider has better software and avionics technology than the previous Block 20 version. Including a new sensor, updated crew seats with additional safety features, and new technology, routers and networks.

As with the AC-130W Stinger II, the AC-130J is equipped with the Precision-Strike Package (PSP), which comprises a single 30 mm Mk44 Bushmaster cannon, precision-guided munitions, and a 105 mm cannon. Precision-guided munitions such as the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) and Raytheon's AGM-176A Griffin missile will also be employed, while AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and high-energy lasers could feature among future armament options.

The Block 30 aircraft was handed over to the 4th Special Operations Squadron (SOS) at Bob Sikes Airport in Crestview, Florida. AFSOC will receive 37 Ghostrider Gunship in Total.