AC-119

The AC‑119, developed by the Fairchild‑Hiller Corporation in the early 1960s, was a twin‑engine, turboprop conversion of the World War II C‑119 Flying Boxcar. Originally built for the United States Air Force as a transport, the airframe was rebored with two Pratt & Whitney T64‑A‑15 turboprop engines, giving it higher speed, better climb performance and extended range. Two principal variants emerged: the AC‑119K “Starduster” for electronic‑signals‑intelligence (ELINT) missions over Vietnam, and the AC‑119G “Shadow Bat” for night‑time close‑air support and search‑and‑rescue operations. Both versions employed an array of sophisticated equipment, including radar, infrared sensors, flare‑dispensing systems and side‑firing .50‑caliber machine guns. The aircraft’s spacious fuselage allowed ample crew stations and mission‑specific payloads, while its robust landing gear permitted operation from rough forward airfields. In combat, the AC‑119 proved vital for interdicting enemy supply routes, illuminating targets for strike aircraft, and directing artillery fire. Its successful adaptation demonstrated the value of converting legacy transports into specialized gunships, influencing later platforms such as the AC‑130. The AC‑119 remains a notable example of Cold‑War ingenuity and a bridge between piston‑powered transports and modern multi‑role gunships.