The US has deployed AC-130J Ghostrider aircraft and special operations helicopters to the UK.
The landing of at least 16 US military aircraft, including AC-130J Ghostriders and MH-60M helicopters, in the UK has fueled speculation about new special operations.
The United States has just made a notable military deployment by sending at least 16 aircraft, including the heavy fire support variant AC-130J Ghostrider, to bases in the UK. This move comes amid preparations for special operations, although the specific objectives have not yet been officially announced by military officials.
Details of the deployed aircraft and equipment.
According to data from The Times, since January 3rd, a combined squadron of the United States Air Force (USAF) has begun landing at three Royal Air Force (RAF) bases in Suffolk and Gloucestershire. In total, the US has deployed 14 C-17 Globemaster strategic transport aircraft and two AC-130J Ghostrider aircraft – characteristic combat vehicles of special forces.
Notably, the C-17 transport aircraft not only carried supplies but also transported at least five MH-60M Black Hawk helicopters and one MH-47G Chinook helicopter. These are specialized helicopters used for infiltration and reconnaissance missions in complex combat environments.
Analysis of combat capabilities and intended objectives
The AC-130J Ghostrider is the most modern variant of the gunship, equipped with 30mm and 105mm cannons, and capable of deploying precision weapons such as Griffin missiles and small diameter bombs (SDBs). The combination of the C-17's long-range transport capabilities and the AC-130J's ground support firepower is typical of preparations for a high-intensity military operation.
Although neither the Pentagon nor the UK Ministry of Defence has issued an official comment on this airlift, military analysts have begun to offer various scenarios. Some believe the US is preparing for potential operations in the Middle East or other volatile security hotspots.
However, experts also advise observers to exercise caution and avoid drawing premature conclusions. This deployment could serve the purpose of coordinated exercises or to enhance the combat readiness of US special forces in the European region amidst the new geopolitical landscape.
