Project CHECO Southeast Asia Report. The Role of USAF Gunships in SE Asia.

摘要

Gunship activity in Southeast Asia in 1965 and the first half of 1966 was recorded in two CHECO reports. Another CHECO report, 'Night Close Air Support in RVN,' published in 1967, devoted considerable space to the use of the gunship from its inception through 1966. These document the impact of this weapon system on the war and the persistent high-level interest in its progress and development. 'The Role of Gunships in SEA' is a continuation of these reports, recounting typical activities and effectiveness of each gunship type: the Spooky, known for its role in close air support; the Shadow, functioning in armed reconnaissance; and the Spectre, recognized for its action in interdiction. This report also describes the gunship/fighter escort concept, a major tactical development in air-to-ground combat.