About this Unit
The 16th Special Operations Squadron (16th SOS), known as the "Spectre," was activated in 1968 and is most famous for operating the AC-130 gunship. The unit played a vital role during the Vietnam War, conducting close air support, interdiction, and armed reconnaissance missions, particularly along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Over the decades, the 16th SOS participated in numerous conflicts, including Operations Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, delivering precision firepower and supporting special operations forces worldwide. The squadron was based at Hurlburt Field, Florida, until its inactivation in 2015, with its lineage and mission continuing under other Air Force Special Operations Command units.
Historical Facts
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Origins: The 16th Special Operations Squadron (16th SOS) was activated on 1 June 1968, during the height of the Vietnam War, to provide specialized gunship support.
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Aircraft: The unit is famous for operating the AC-130H Spectre gunship, a heavily armed, long-endurance ground-attack aircraft based on the C-130 Hercules airframe.
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Vietnam War Operations: The 16th SOS quickly became renowned for its night interdiction missions along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, disrupting enemy logistics and troop movements.
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“Spectre” Call Sign: The call sign “Spectre” became synonymous with overwhelming firepower and a persistent aerial presence, often striking fear into enemy forces.
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First Combat Loss: On 29 March 1972, the squadron suffered its first combat loss when an AC-130H was shot down by a North Vietnamese surface-to-air missile.
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Operation Desert Storm: The 16th SOS played a key role in Operation Desert Storm (1991), providing close air support, armed reconnaissance, and interdiction missions in Iraq and Kuwait.
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Decorations: The squadron has earned numerous awards, including the Presidential Unit Citation, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross.
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Operation Enduring Freedom: After 9/11, the 16th SOS deployed to Afghanistan, supporting special operations forces and coalition troops with precision fire support.
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Retirement of AC-130H: The squadron’s last AC-130H “Spectre” gunship was retired in May 2015, marking the end of an era for the historic aircraft and the 16th SOS.
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Legacy: The 16th SOS’s motto, “Spectre,” and its legacy of innovation, courage, and effectiveness in combat continue to inspire the Air Force Special Operations community.
