<ul class="summary-list"><li>Since the mid-1960s, <keyword id="11624322" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="ac-130">AC-130</keyword> gunships have provided <keyword id="2853046" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="close-air-support">close air support</keyword> for troops all over the world.</li><li>The AC-130's utility and effectiveness created a dynasty that's now on its sixth version.</li><li>"The sheer number of weapons options it brought to the battlefield was wild," a former Air Force combat controller told Insider.</li></ul><p>If you were to ask special operators about their favorite close-air-support aircraft, you would get two answers: the A-10 Thunderbolt and the AC-130 <keyword id="1248558" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="gunship">gunship</keyword>.</p><p>Both platforms are beloved by commandos and conventional ground troops alike for their effective firepower, but the AC-130 gunship has the edge over the A-10 because of its unique ability to fire continually against a target.</p><p>Essentially an aerial artillery platform, the AC-130 attacks using the "pylon turn" technique - flying in a wide circle above the target area, allowing for a steady volume of fire, as opposed to having to turn and come back like the A-10.</p><p>The AC-130 is so effective that it has been supporting conventional and special-operations troops for close to 60 years, seeing action in Asia, South America, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.</p><p>The latest version of the gunship, the <keyword id="11624321" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="ac-130j">AC-130J</keyword>, continues to be well traveled. In March, an AC-130J operated <a href="https://www.hurlburt.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2557014/ac-130j-ghostrider-visits-japan/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">in Japan</a> for the first time, and in May, an AC-130J trained in Romania for <a href="https://www.352sow.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2629245/nato-allies-increase-joint-interoperability-during-trojan-footprint-21/" target="_top">the first time</a>.</p><p>But everything began in the jungles of Vietnam.</p><h2>'Puff, the Magic Dragon'</h2><div type="image" title="Air Force Douglas AC-47 Dragon gunship" height="1584" width="2000" msid="84348477" hostid="261"></div><p>The AC-130 was introduced in the 1960s and first saw action during the Vietnam War.</p><p>It was an upgrade to the AC-47 Spooky, nicknamed "Puff, the Magic Dragon," that had been supporting conventional and special-operations troops. The nickname was inspired by the otherworldly effect the AC-47's miniguns produced when firing at night.</p><p>Even the first versions of the aircraft, with their primitive nighttime capabilities, made the difference, saving infantry companies and special-operations recon teams from getting wiped out by the numerically superior North Vietnamese or Viet Cong.</p><p>Firing 40 mm and 105 mm rounds, the AC-130 and AC-47 gunships were also credited with destroying more than 10,000 enemy vehicles.</p><p>The aircraft's utility and effectiveness pushed the Air Force to invest more in the platform, beginning a dynasty that has gone through six versions: the AC-130A, -E, -H, -U, -W, and -J. Only the -W and -J models remain in service.</p><h2>Death from above</h2><div type="image" title="AC-130 firing cannons" height="1317" width="2000" msid="84348483" hostid="261"></div><p>The AC-130 gunship's primary mission sets are close air support, air interdiction, and armed reconnaissance, but it can also participate in combat search and rescue and forward air control if needed.</p><p>The AC-130 gunship is beloved because of its arsenal, loiter time, and diverse uses.</p><p>The latest iteration of the aircraft, the AC-130J Ghostrider, packs quite a punch, with 30 mm and 105 mm cannons and the ability to launch "smart munitions," such as the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb and the AGM-114 Hellfire and AGM-176 Griffin missiles.</p><p>With an operational range of 3,000 miles and the ability to do aerial refueling, the AC-130 can stay over a target for an extended period.</p><p>Sensors aboard the AC-130 can also provide real-time intelligence to troops on the ground and commanders back in headquarters. This intelligence-gathering capability can be as important, if not more important, than its superb firepower.</p><div type="image" title="Aircrew load cannon aboard AC-130" height="1303" width="2000" msid="84348485" hostid="261"></div><p>"What makes the AC-130 unique is the ability to provide close air support with multi-caliber weapons, engaging two targets simultaneously, and the ability to use ISR [Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance] to support a wide range of missions," BA, a former AC-130 gunner, told Insider.</p><p>Special-operations units will often send individuals on board the AC-130s as liaisons.</p><p>During the opening days of the invasion in Afghanistan, the "Night Stalkers" of the Army's 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment and the Navy's SEAL Team 6 both had people aboard the AC-130s that were supporting their operations in order to coordinate fire.</p><p>Such liaisons provide important perspective to the AC-130 crews, helping them understand what troops on the ground are seeing and the resistance they're facing.</p><p>"I had an <keyword id="11624320" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="ac-130w">AC-130W</keyword> overhead a few times, and the sheer number of weapons options it brought to the battlefield was wild," a former Air Force combat controller, who was responsible for coordinating close air support, told Insider.</p><p>"The payload included cannons, glide bombs and Griffin missiles. They also had a pretty solid on-station time and the crews stayed longer than they were supposed to because they wanted to work and CAS [close air support] is their dedicated mission," the former combat controller said.</p><div type="image" title="Air Force AC-130J Ghostrider gunship" height="925" width="1233" msid="84348491" hostid="261"></div><p>AC-130 crews are often unsung heroes, saving the day with their precise and overwhelming firepower. They don't get enough credit or public recognition, but that's not why they do it.</p><p>"Supporting SOF [special-operations forces] was a very rewarding mission. To work with the best in the world, from other counties, was truly an honor," BA said. "These men trusted us with their lives when it truly mattered. The time of day and the distance from home was never considered. We knew our mission was to support the ground guys and to get them back 'home.'"</p><p>The US military's air superiority has ensured that AC-130s have had very few casualties. For all its capabilities, the aircraft is restricted by its relatively slow speed and low maneuverability, making it an easy target for enemy fighters or anti-aircraft defenses.</p><p>The Air Force lost its only AC-130 to enemy action in 1991, during Operation Desert Storm.</p><p>Designated "Spirit 03," the AC-130H Spectre was supporting US and coalition troops as they advanced through Kuwait when it was shot down by an Iraqi portable surface-to-air missile, killing all 14 Air Commandos aboard in the largest single loss of life in Air Force Special Operations Command's history.</p><p><em>Stavros Atlamazoglou is a defense journalist specializing in special operations, a Hellenic Army veteran (national service with the 575th Marine Battalion and Army HQ), and a Johns Hopkins University graduate.</em></p>

The AC-130 gunship has been backing up special operators for 55 years, and it's still popping up in new countries

<ul class="summary-list"><li>US Air Force special operators took their AC-130J to Australia for an exercise in July.</li><li>It's the first time the AC-130 has been to Australia since the gunship was introduced in the 1960s.</li></ul><p>In late July and early August, the Australian military held a record-setting military exercise with troops from 13 countries, including the US.</p><p>But before the start of this year's <a href="https://www.defence.gov.au/exercises/talisman-sabre" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Talisman Sabre</a> exercise — the largest edition ever — US special operators arrived Down Under with some of their most capable and valuable aircraft.</p><p>As part of <a href="https://www.airforce.gov.au/news-and-events/events/exercise-teak-action-23" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Exercise Teak Action</a>, held in southeastern Australia in early July, US Air Force special operators flew their AC-130 gunship in Australia for the first time <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ac130-gunship-has-supported-special-operations-for-55-years-2021-7" target="_top">since it entered service in 1960s</a>.</p><h2>The thunder of guns</h2><div type="image" title="AC-130J cannon" height="1333" width="2000" msid="103025400" hostid="261" sizebytes="245572"></div><p>While in Australia, Air Commandos from US Air Force Special Operations Command's 23rd Special Tactics Squadron and their AC-130Js took part in dry-fire rehearsals in coordination with US and Australian Combat Control teams on the ground.</p><p>US <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/air-force-considering-plan-to-reduce-number-of-tacp-airmen-2023-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joint Terminal Attack Controllers</a>, or JTACs, and Australian Forward Air Control-Airborne, or FAC-A, specialists guided the <a href="https://www.19fortyfive.com/2021/12/why-us-special-forces-commandos-and-ac-130-gunships-are-training-for-war/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AC-130 gunships</a> in training scenarios that tested their marksmanship and coordination.</p><p>During the exercise, US and Australian troops also expanded their interoperability and worked on their ability to conduct short-notice operations in the Indo-Pacific area of operations.</p><p>The exercise was a chance for the two air forces "to conduct formation flying, landing zone survey, and close air support training that maintains our interoperability," said Wing Commander Steven Duffy, commander of the Australian air force's 4 Squadron.</p><div type="image" title="AC-130J cannon" height="1333" width="2000" msid="103025405" hostid="261" sizebytes="312006"></div><p>"We've learnt about the capability of the aircraft and the support framework required for the aircraft to base in Australia and project throughout the region," Duffy said in <a href="https://www.defence.gov.au/news-events/news/2023-07-14/training-special-operations-readiness" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a press release</a>.</p><p>Since entering service in the late 1960s, the different versions of the AC-130 — the AC-130J "Ghostrider" is the latest and <a href="https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/467756/ac-130j-ghostrider/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">first deployed</a> in 2019 — have seen action in Asia, Africa, South America, Europe, and the Middle East, but the gunship continues to cover new ground: In a three-month span in 2021, it operated <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ac130-gunship-has-supported-special-operations-for-55-years-2021-7" target="_top">for the first time in both Japan and Romania</a>.</p><p>Although this was the first time the AC-130 operated in Australia, the aircraft could be based in the area if tensions with China continue to grow.</p><p>The AC-130's primary mission sets are <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/air-force-retiring-a10-amid-dobuts-about-close-air-support-2023-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">close air support</a>, air interdiction, and armed reconnaissance. Essentially, the AC-130 is an aerial artillery platform that flies over a target slowly and fires cannons and precision munitions <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-ac130-gunship-crews-use-their-green-beam-lasers-2022-11" target="_top">with deadly accuracy</a>.</p><p>But the AC-130 is really only suited for operations in areas where the US and its allies have established air superiority, as its bulky size and relatively slow speed leave it vulnerable to attack.</p><h2>A beloved aircraft</h2><div type="image" title="AC-130J Australia" height="1331" width="2000" msid="103025409" hostid="261" sizebytes="133394"></div><p>Alongside a few other aircraft that specialize in close air support, like <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/air-force-retiring-a10-amid-dobuts-about-close-air-support-2023-2" target="_top">the venerable A-10 Warthog</a>, the AC-130 gunship is widely beloved by ground troops. Its ability to linger over a target, its arsenal, and its proven accuracy have made it a must-have in combat operations.</p><p>"When it's two o'clock in the morning, and you're in some field in the middle of nowhere going after some bad guy, and you hear that low humming from the [AC-130] gunship above you, you feel a sense of security that it's hard to convey in words," a former Army Green Beret officer, granted anonymity because of their current work with the US government, told Insider.</p><p>The US Air Force has operated six versions of the gunship — AC-130A, AC-130E, AC-130H, AC-130U, AC130W, and AC-130J — during its five decades in service. The AC-130J is armed with 30 mm and 105 mm cannons and can fire a plethora of smart munitions, including the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb, GBU-69 Small Glide Munition, AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, and AGM-176 Griffin missiles.</p><div type="image" title="AC-130J Australia" height="1331" width="2000" msid="103025413" hostid="261" sizebytes="94748"></div><p>However, the AC-130 will face new challenges in a conflict against a capable adversary. The complete air superiority the US military enjoyed in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/fighter-jets-unable-to-provide-close-air-support-over-ukraine-2023-3" target="_top">won't be there in a war with Russia or China</a>.</p><p>As a result, the Air Force will have to find ways to keep the AC-130 relevant in non-permissive or semi-permissive operating environments.</p><p>Air Force Special Operations Command is <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/us-socom-is-upgrading-biggest-planes-to-compete-with-china-2021-10" target="_top">upgrading its fleet of AC-130s</a> with additional countermeasures and sensors to increase its survivability and its ability to contribute to operations on a modern battlefield. The command has also started testing <a href="https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/ac-130-gunship-laser-weapon-programs-future-is-looking-blurry" target="_blank" rel="noopener">airborne lasers</a>, cruise missiles, and other stand-off munitions to equip the AC-130 for future conflicts where <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/us-air-force-blended-wing-body-design-tankers-cargo-planes-2023-8" target="_top">long-range operations are expected to be the norm</a>.</p><p>More than 60 years after the AC-130's first combat sorties over the jungles of Southeast Asia, the US Air Force is making sure the gunship will remain part of its special-operations arsenal.</p><p><em>Stavros Atlamazoglou is a defense journalist specializing in special operations, a Hellenic Army veteran (national service with the 575th Marine Battalion and Army HQ), and a Johns Hopkins University graduate. He is working toward a master's degree in strategy and cybersecurity at Johns Hopkins' School of Advanced International Studies.</em></p>

After nearly 60 years in flight, US Air Force special operators took their AC-130 gunship to Australia for the first time

<ul><li>Sri Venkateswara <keyword id="5941013" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Surabhi-Theatre">Surabhi theatre</keyword> has been performing plays together every week for generations ever since their inception in 1885.</li><li>With the <keyword id="8637077" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Coronavirus-lockdown">coronavirus lockdown</keyword>, the family is now struggling to survive and is raising funds. </li><li>The troop is known for its recreation of Hindu mythology with brilliant light and sound techniques, elaborate yet meticulous make-up, and larger than life costumes and backdrops</li></ul>In Hyderabad, a family of 65 members stay together for their one love – theatre. The family behind the renowned Sri Venkateswara Surabhi theatre has been performing plays together every week for generations ever since its inception in 1885 in Surabhi, a village in the Kadapa District of Andhra Pradesh.<br /><br />Known for their colourful adaptations of Hindu mythology which transport you back in time, the family now faces an obstacle that paints a dark future for them. With the coronavirus lockdown, the family, which lives together and puts up shows every week, is now struggling to survive and is raising funds. <br /><br />An Instagram post, that was even shared by actor Rana Daggubati, says, “Members of the family have lost their job and are going through the worst phase of their lives. The group consists of many kids and older people who are deprived of basic necessities due to this lockdown going on in India. Surabhi theatre is striving to survive through this difficult time and needs all our support and help.”<br /><br />  <div type="javascript" title="Instagram" contenttype="Image"><cdata><![CDATA[<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-_OKxGDI_g/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-_OKxGDI_g/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"> View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div></a> <p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-_OKxGDI_g/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Posted @withregram • @shobuy_ #Repost @swaratghosh (@get_repost) ・・・ A few years back have done a story on a theatre group in Hyderabad called Surabhi. The group, known for mythological plays with unique special effects and brilliant lighting schemes, comprises members of a single-family put up a performance every week, and this tradition has been going on for nearly 128 years. Meticulously applied make-up, colourful backdrops, lustrous costumes and magic created through innovative tricks are the forte of Surabhi. It creates a magical effect and transports the audience to a make-believe world. At present, due to Corona Virus, the 50 members of the family have lost their job and going through the worst phase of their lives. The group consist of many kids and older people who are deprived of their basic necessity due to this lockdown going on in India. Surabhi theatre is striving to survive through this difficult time and needs all our support and help. The Bank Details: Name : Sri Venkateswara Surabhi theatre, A/C No: 3327101010863, CANARA Bank, Hyderabad Chandanagar branch, saving account, IFSC Code: CNRB0003327, MICR Code: 500015063, PAN : AAXAS4079F Google pay and Phone pay number: 9494507007 Address: 20-1/sc/216, Surabhi Colony, Serilingampally, Rangareddy dist - 500019 Telangana Surabhi Jayachandra Varma Secretary, Sri Venkateswara Surabhi Theatre Website: www.surabhitheatre.com Email: surabhijayachandra@gmail.com 9912924723, 9494507007 #surabhi #theatre #covi̇d19 #viiphoto</a></p> <p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ranadaggubati/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Rana Daggubati</a> (@ranadaggubati) on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2020-04-15T04:18:38+00:00">Apr 14, 2020 at 9:18pm PDT</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>]]></cdata></div><br />Through the social media campaign they are now asking for donations. <br /><br /><strong>Keeping a 130-year old tradition alive<br /></strong><br />In 1885, the family’s ancestor and founder of the troop Vanarasa Govinda Rao, took over his father’s traditional show puppetry and established the <keyword id="215636" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Theatre-group">theatre group</keyword>. Their first show <em>Keechaka Vadha </em>involved puppets and live drama. The show was a big success and there has been no turning back since then. <br /><br />The group is also credited to have been the first to bring women on stage. “Since the Surabhi is a family system, women were motivated to perform the women's roles on their own. It also popularised gramophone records, contributed actors to the film industry, and took theatre beyond the geographical boundaries of Andhra Pradesh,” says the group’s official website.<br /><br />They were also the first to tick off the ticketing system for plays. <br /><br />Ever since then, the troop is known for its recreation of Hindu mythology with brilliant light and sound techniques, elaborate yet meticulous make-up, and larger than life costumes and backdrops. The entire family lives together and produces these shows.<br /><br />Through their plays, they have also addressed social issues in the rural areas.<br /><br />In 2013, Rekandar Nageswara Rao who is the director of the group was awarded the Padma Shri, but before him, a director B V Karanth too was awarded with the civilian honour. <br /><br />See Also:<br /><a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/pm-modi-praises-a-74-yr-old-pensioner-for-distributing-over-6000-masks/articleshow/75176728.cms">PM Modi applauds 74 year old pensioner who sews homemade masks out of his pension</a><br />

This theatre family safeguarding a 130-year old tradition is now struggling to raise funds and survive

<ul class="summary-list"><li>The US Air Force's AC-130 gunship has a reputation for delivering firepower to the battlefield.</li><li>Two AC-130Js used a more subtle tool to aid US forces on the ground during the evacuation of Kabul.</li></ul><p>The AC-130 is one of the US military's most capable aircraft. Ground troops love the gunship and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/ac130-gunship-has-supported-special-operations-for-55-years-2021-7" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the capabilities it brings to the fight</a>, but it can be effective even without deploying its large arsenal.</p><p>During the chaotic <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/us-air-force-planes-crews-recovering-after-afghanistan-evacuation-2021-10" target="_blank" rel="noopener">evacuation of Kabul in August 2021</a>, two AC-130J Ghostrider crews used a little-known laser sensor on their planes to help control the chaotic situation around the airport and keep enemy forces at bay as friendly troops carried out the evacuation.</p><p>The crews, both from the 73rd Expeditionary Special Operations Squadron, distinguished themselves during the operation and received the <a href="https://www.airandspaceforces.com/ac-130j-crews-awarded-2021-mackay-trophy/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mackay Trophy</a> for the year's most meritorious flight, Lt. Gen. Jim Slife, commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, said in September.</p><h2>The green beam</h2><div type="image" title="AC-130J Ghostrider gunship green laser beam light" height="1239" width="1652" msid="95942887" hostid="261" sizebytes="9058"></div><p>While discussing the performance of Air Force special-operations crews during the Kabul evacuation, Slife referred to a targeting technology that Air Commandos use and affectionally call "the green beam."</p><p>AC-130 crews use the green beam — which Slife called a "giant green laser pointer" — both to point things out to friendly forces and to deter adversaries by letting them know that they're in the gunship's sights. AFSOC started putting the laser on several of its aircraft around 2010.</p><p>The heavily armed AC-130 usually operates at night because its bulky size and need to fly relatively low and slow to fire accurately make it more vulnerable than other aircraft.</p><p>Using the laser has some downsides — mainly that it reveals the gunship's position, making it easier to target from the ground.</p><p>The laser is meant "to let the adversaries know that you see him," Slife said at an event hosted by the Air and Space Forces Association. "So it's not a particularly popular capability among the crews, because the other end of that green beam is connected to me and I don't necessarily want to highlight my position like that."</p><div type="image" title="AC-130J Ghostrider gunship green laser beam" height="1331" width="1774" msid="95942888" hostid="261" sizebytes="159824"></div><p>During the chaotic evacuation, AC-130 gunships and AH-64 attack helicopters provided air cover for troops on the ground, who had the challenging mission of evacuating tens of thousands of people who crowded the airport to escape the Taliban.</p><p>During the evacuation, AC-130J crews used their green lasers, which are visible to the naked eye, <a href="https://www.coffeeordie.com/gunships-ac-130j-kabul" target="_blank" rel="noopener">to illuminate people</a> who breached the Kabul airport compound, allowing ground forces intercept them or drive them off.</p><p>The green beam proved extremely useful for "managing a very chaotic situation on the ground," Slife said, adding that gunship crews used it to communicate with ground forces about potential threats, thereby "building the situational awareness for the force on the ground and keeping the adversaries kind of pushed back while the evacuation was underway."</p><p>While flying at night, it's very useful to have aids to see where exactly you are aiming, and the AC-130 has other laser-targeting and range-finding sensors to aid in the crew's marksmanship.</p><p>Hitting something is not as simple as seeing it, since gravity, elevation, speed, and atmospheric conditions affect the trajectory of the AC-130's artillery and cannon fire, but having those aids is still invaluable for gunship crews.</p><h2>The AC-130 gunship</h2><div type="image" title="US Air Force AC-130J Ghostrider gunship howitzer" height="1331" width="2000" msid="95942892" hostid="261" sizebytes="152760"></div><p>In addition to being heavily armed, the AC-130 can remain over the battlefield for long periods, though its dwell time is limited by the cover of darkness and other conditions. Those features have made the gunship one of the most celebrated and highly valued aircraft by among ground troops.</p><p>The AC-130 is essentially a precision artillery gun on wings. It carries deadly 105 mm and 30 mm cannons, AGM-114 Hellfire air-to-ground missiles, GBU-39/53 small diameter bombs, AGM-176 Griffin precision-guided glide bombs.</p><p>Air Force Special Operations Command has been experimenting with other weapons for the gunship, including <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/socom-working-on-new-laser-weapons-for-ac130j-ghostrider-gunship-2022-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">a high-energy laser</a> that could allow it to carry out stealthier ground attacks and to defeat incoming missiles.</p><p>To engage its targets, the AC-130 employs the "pylon turn" technique in which it flies in a wide, steady turn, allowing its gun crews to fire away while aiming at a fixed point on the ground.</p><p>The AC-130 has been around since <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/before-the-ac130-the-air-force-had-another-fearsome-gunship-2020-10" target="_blank" rel="noopener">the Vietnam War</a> and has been so successful that the Air Force continues to upgrade it. Since the AC-130A was introduced in 1968, US crews have flown the -E, -H, -U, -W, and -J versions. The latest version, called Ghostrider, was introduced in 2017 and saw <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/air-force-ac-130j-ghostrider-gunship-working-overtime-in-afghanistan-2019-11" target="_blank" rel="noopener">extensive combat in Afghanistan</a>.</p><p><em>Stavros Atlamazoglou is a defense journalist specializing in special operations, a Hellenic Army veteran (national service with the 575th Marine Battalion and Army HQ), and a Johns Hopkins University graduate. He is working toward a master's degree in strategy and cybersecurity at the Johns Hopkins' School of Advanced International Studies.</em></p>

Caught in 'the green beam': How US Air Force gunship crews let a target know they have it in their sights

<ul><li><keyword id="7442323" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="amazon-holi-sale" source="Orion">Amazon Holi Sale</keyword> 2023 is now live.</li><li>The sale offers discounts of up to 70% on electronics products.</li><li>Below, check out some best deals on offers on selected products.</li></ul>As the festival of Holi approaches, various brands celebrate the occasion of colors by offering ongoing sales. Retailers and e-commerce giants like Amazon have announced their Holi sales for 2023. This is an excellent opportunity for those waiting to buy electronic products during a sale. In addition, potential buyers can enjoy significant discounts on budget-friendly smartphones, wearables, and more.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Amazon Holi Sale 2023" comment="subhead" text="Amazon Holi Sale 2023"><span data-til="noop">Amazon Holi Sale 2023</span></cmsannotation><br />Amazon India has initiated a special sale called the Holi Shopping Store to mark the festival of Holi. The sale features discounted prices on various products, including TVs, headphones, Amazon devices, and more. The sale is already underway and offers discounts of up to 70%. Besides this, buyers can avail of no-cost EMI on select cards for orders above ₹3,000<br /><br />Here are some selected deals for you to consider.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Headphones and speakers" comment="subhead" text="Headphones and speakers"><span data-til="noop">Headphones and speakers</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Boult Audio Anchor Bluetooth Wireless Over-Ear Headphones" comment="subhead" text="Boult Audio Anchor Bluetooth Wireless Over-Ear Headphones"><span data-til="noop">Boult Audio Anchor Bluetooth Wireless Over-Ear Headphones</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B095KXJFQ7" comment="amazoncard" text="B095KXJFQ7"><span data-til="noop">B095KXJFQ7</span></cmsannotation><br />These over-ear headphones from Boult are ideal for gaming and professional use. It features 40mm of drivers that are said to deliver balanced sound quality. These headphones boast a playback time of 30 hours at minimal use. Also, you get a dedicated Gaming Mode, which allows you to enjoy a low-latency gaming experience. These headphones are IPX5 rated, which means sweat and rain won't ruin your listening experience.<br /><br />You can buy this for just ₹3,998, down from its original price of ₹9,999. Also, you can opt for no-cost EMI by using selected bank cards.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="JBL Tune 130NC True Wireless in Ear Earbuds" comment="subhead" text="JBL Tune 130NC True Wireless in Ear Earbuds"><span data-til="noop">JBL Tune 130NC True Wireless in Ear Earbuds</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B09HGW9V7D" comment="amazoncard" text="B09HGW9V7D"><span data-til="noop">B09HGW9V7D</span></cmsannotation><br />If you are looking for truly wireless earbuds this Holi, your search should end with JBL Tune 130NC. These earbuds feature Active Noise Cancelling technology with four mics that minimize audio distractions seamlessly. It comes with a playback time of 40 (30+10) hours of playtime with Bluetooth (ANC OFF). Further, you can customize your Tune 130NC listening experience with JBL Headphones App. Also, with Ambient Aware, you can tune into your surroundings anytime to feel safer when you’re out in the world, while TalkThru lets you stop for a quick chat without removing your Tune 130 NC earbuds.<br /><br />As a part of the Holi sale, you can buy this earbud for just ₹4,499, down from its original price of ₹6,999. Also, you can save extra by coupling bank offers and coupons available.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Boat Rockerz 255 Pro+" comment="subhead" text="Boat Rockerz 255 Pro+"><span data-til="noop">Boat Rockerz 255 Pro+</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B08TV2P1N8" comment="amazoncard" text="B08TV2P1N8"><span data-til="noop">B08TV2P1N8</span></cmsannotation><br />These neckband-style headphones from Boat are decent if you want decent performance at a budget price. It comes with a battery backup of up to 40 hours. Other than this, you get ASAP Charge- which gives you 10 hours of audio time by charging it for only 10 mins. This neckband features dual pairing so you can connect two devices simultaneously. During the Holi sale, you can buy it for just ₹1,299, down from its original price of ₹3,990.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Sony WH-XB910N" comment="subhead" text="Sony WH-XB910N"><span data-til="noop">Sony WH-XB910N</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B09CGB6VRR" comment="amazoncard" text="B09CGB6VRR"><span data-til="noop">B09CGB6VRR</span></cmsannotation><br />If you are looking for premium headphones, then Sony WH-XB910N should be on your list. During the sale, it is only available for ₹12,990, down from its original price of ₹19,990. It comes with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that is said to deliver a virtually soundproof experience in any situation. It is also Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri enabled (In-built) for voice access to music, information, and more. <br /><br />It can be paired with two Bluetooth devices at the same time. So when a call comes in, your headphones automatically know which device is ringing and connect to the right one.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Echo Smart Speakers &amp; Display" comment="subhead" text="Echo Smart Speakers &amp; Display"><span data-til="noop">Echo Smart Speakers &amp; Display</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Echo Dot (3rd Gen)" comment="subhead" text="Echo Dot (3rd Gen)"><span data-til="noop">Echo Dot (3rd Gen)</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B07PFFMP9P" comment="amazoncard" text="B07PFFMP9P"><span data-til="noop">B07PFFMP9P</span></cmsannotation><br />You can go for Echo Dot (3rd Gen) if you are new to the smart speaker segment. It features Voice control Alexa and is compatible with smart appliances like lights, ACs, TVs, geysers, etc. During the sale, you can buy it for just ₹3,499, down from its original price of ₹4,499.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Echo Dot (5th Gen)" comment="subhead" text="Echo Dot (5th Gen)"><span data-til="noop">Echo Dot (5th Gen)</span></cmsannotation> <br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B09B8XJDW5" comment="amazoncard" text="B09B8XJDW5"><span data-til="noop">B09B8XJDW5</span></cmsannotation><br />If you are looking for the latest version of the Echo Dot Smart Speaker, then Echo Dot (5th Gen) will do the job. This is the latest offering from Amazon, which features deeper bass and clearer vocals than all previous generations. Also, with the help of Voice control Alexa, you can operate smart appliances like lights, ACs, TVs, and geysers.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Fire TV Stick" comment="subhead" text="Fire TV Stick"><span data-til="noop">Fire TV Stick</span></cmsannotation> <br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B08R6QR863" comment="amazoncard" text="B08R6QR863"><span data-til="noop">B08R6QR863</span></cmsannotation><br />If you are looking for a smart TV stick, Fire TV Stick from Amazon is ideal. Available for just ₹3,999, it lets you use your voice to search and launch shows across apps. Other than this, it features Dolby Atmos technology, which is said to deliver clear and crisp audio details. Other than access to OTT platforms, it lets you transform your regular TV into a smart one without hassle.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Echo Show 5" comment="subhead" text="Echo Show 5"><span data-til="noop">Echo Show 5</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B08KGVYX6F" comment="amazoncard" text="B08KGVYX6F"><span data-til="noop">B08KGVYX6F</span></cmsannotation><br />This smart speaker from Amazon features a 5.5-inch screen and Alexa that can be operated by voice and fit on your bedside or coffee table. It lets you monitor your home remotely with its built-in camera and Alexa app. Also, you can use the camera to make video calls to friends and family who have the Alexa app or Echo Show devices<br /><br />During the Holi sale, you can buy it for just ₹6,499, down from its original price of ₹8,999. Also, you can buy them using selected bank cards at no cost EMI.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Smart TVs" comment="subhead" text="Smart TVs"><span data-til="noop">Smart TVs</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="OnePlus Y Series HD Ready LED Smart Android TV" comment="subhead" text="OnePlus Y Series HD Ready LED Smart Android TV"><span data-til="noop">OnePlus Y Series HD Ready LED Smart Android TV</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B08B42LWKN" comment="amazoncard" text="B08B42LWKN"><span data-til="noop">B08B42LWKN</span></cmsannotation><br />If you are looking for a smart TV under ₹20,000, this is the right time to buy one. During the Holi sale, OnePlus Y Series smart TV is available for just ₹14,999, down from its original price of ₹19,999. <br /><br />It features a 32-inch display with a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz. It has 2 HDMI ports to connect the set-top box, Blu-Ray players, and gaming console, and 2 USB ports to connect hard drives and other USB devices. Other than this it comes with smart TV features such as OnePlus Connect, Google Assistant, Chromecast, Shared Album, and more.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="MI 5A Series HD Ready Smart Android LED TV" comment="subhead" text="MI 5A Series HD Ready Smart Android LED TV"><span data-til="noop">MI 5A Series HD Ready Smart Android LED TV</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B0B6F7LX4C" comment="amazoncard" text="B0B6F7LX4C"><span data-til="noop">B0B6F7LX4C</span></cmsannotation><br />It features a 32-inch of display and a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz. Besides this, this smart TV also comes with 178 Degree wide viewing angle. It comes with Dual Band Wi-Fi, 2 HDMI ports to connect the latest gaming consoles, a set-top box, Blu-ray Players, and 2 USB ports to connect hard drives and other USB devices. <br /><br />During the Holi sale, you can buy it for just ₹11,999, down from its original price of ₹24,999. Also, you can buy it at no-cost EMI using selected bank cards. Also, you can save an additional ₹3,710 by exchanging your old TV for the new one.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="LG (32 inches) HD Ready Smart LED TV" comment="subhead" text="LG (32 inches) HD Ready Smart LED TV"><span data-til="noop">LG (32 inches) HD Ready Smart LED TV</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B08DPLCM6T" comment="amazoncard" text="B08DPLCM6T"><span data-til="noop">B08DPLCM6T</span></cmsannotation><br />This 32-inch smart TV from LG features a 32-inch HD-ready display with a maximum refresh rate of 50Hz. It features 20W down-firing speakers that deliver clear and crisp audio quality. Besides, it has multiple smart TV features such as Screen Mirroring, Mini TV Browser, Multi-Tasking, Office 365, and more.<br /><br />During the Holi sale, you can buy it for just ₹13,990, down from its original price of ₹21,990.<br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Redmi 4K Ultra HD Android Smart LED TV" comment="subhead" text="Redmi 4K Ultra HD Android Smart LED TV"><span data-til="noop">Redmi 4K Ultra HD Android Smart LED TV</span></cmsannotation><br /><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="B09RFC46VP" comment="amazoncard" text="B09RFC46VP"><span data-til="noop">B09RFC46VP</span></cmsannotation><br />If you are looking for a 43-inch smart TV with a 4K display, your search should end here. It features 4K Ultra HD (3840x2160) Resolution, a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz, and 178 Degree wide viewing angle. It comes with Dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, 3 HDMI ports to connect the latest gaming consoles, a set-top box, Blu-ray Players, and 2 USB ports to connect hard drives and other USB devices.<br /><br />During the sale, you can buy it for just ₹24,999, down from its original price of ₹42,999.<br />

Holi Sale 2023: Deals on headphones, speakers, TVs, and smart devices on Amazon

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5739e5a552bcd01d7b8c2f12-1240/1024px-ac-130h_spectre_jettisons_flares.jpg" alt="AC 130H_Spectre_jettisons_flares" data-mce-source="US Air Force/Senior Airman Julianne Showalter" /><p class="source"><span>US Air Force/Senior Airman Julianne Showalter</span></p><p class="caption">The AC-130 gunship, one of the aircraft the US says it used to return fire on Russian-backed attacking forces.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul><li><strong>US airstrikes reportedly killed Russian military contractors in a massive battle in Syria earlier this month.</strong></li><li><strong>They are thought to be among the 100 or so dead after the clash.</strong></li><li><strong>It saw 500 pro-Syrian regime forces assaulted US-backed forces in what the US called an "unprovoked attack."</strong></li><li><strong>Russian contractors are not the same as regular Russian soldiers, but US and Russian forces have operated close to each other on opposite sides of the Syrian conflict for years.</strong></li></ul><hr /><p><br />US airstrikes in response to what it called an "<a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/us-kills-more-than-100-pro-assad-forces-after-unprovoked-attack-syria2018-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">unprovoked attack</a>" reportedly killed around 100 people in Syria earlier this month, and now Russian media has reported that Russian military contractors may be among the dead.</p><p>While the Kremlin has declined to comment, and no independent party has yet verified the reports, US and Russian aligned forces have fought on opposite sides of the Syrian conflict and in close proximity for years.</p><p>If the US did kill Russian military contractors, it falls short of killing official Russian servicemembers, which could escalate into a larger war.</p><p>But the loss of Russians in Syria may still blacken the image of the Kremlin's intervention in the six-year civil war, which it portrays as peace-keeping and inexpensive.</p><p>Russian media said Russian private contractors and pro-government forces advanced on oil fields in the eastern Deir el-Zour province and were targeted by the United States.</p><p><span>"Pro-regime forces initiated what appeared to be a coordinated attack on Syrian Democratic Forces east of the Euphrates river," <a href="https://www.defense.gov/News/Article/Article/1436435/pentagon-official-describes-response-to-attack-by-pro-regime-syrian-forces/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pentagon spokesperson Dana White said in a statement</a>, referring to the SDF, which the US has trained, equipped, and backed for years.</span></p><p><span><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a7c90751c013c35008b46e8-1500/3499036.jpg" alt="US Marines howitzer syria" data-mce-source="US Marine Corps" data-mce-caption="US Marines firing a howitzer in Syria" /><p class="source"><span>US Marine Corps</span></p><p class="caption">US Marines firing a howitzer in Syria</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></p><p><span>The river acts as a border between the coalition and Russian and Syrian forces, and the Pentagon also described the SDF location as well-known, and that therefore the attack wasn't a mistake.</span></p><p>Syrian regime forces<span> </span><a href="https://twitter.com/jseldin/status/961646796127731715" target="_blank" rel="noopener">launched</a><span> </span>a coordinated attack that included about 500 regime troops,<span> </span><a href="https://twitter.com/sfrantzman/status/961606980040355840" target="_blank" rel="noopener">122mm howitzers</a>, tanks and multiple launch rocket systems on the US-backed SDF headquarters in Deir al-Zor province approximately five miles east of the Euphrates River.</p><p>Regime forces<span> </span><a href="https://twitter.com/sfrantzman/status/961606980040355840" target="_blank" rel="noopener">operating</a><span> </span>Russian-made<span> </span><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/here-are-all-the-tanks-russias-arsenal-2017-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">T-55 and T-72</a><span> </span>tanks fired 20-30 tank rounds within 500 feet of the SDF base, where some US troops were embedded, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenseBaron/status/961648037474029570">Pentagon press secretary Dana W. White</a>.</p><p><span>The US-led coalition responded with "AC-130 gunships, F-15s, F-22s, Army Apache helicopter gunships and Marine Corps artillery," <a href="https://twitter.com/LucasFoxNews/status/961617576848740352" target="_blank" rel="noopener">according</a> to Fox <keyword id="6355005" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="News">News</keyword> reporter Lucas Tomlinson. </span></p><p><span>The Pentagon said that the attack wounded only one SDF soldier, and that the SDF and US-led coalition's return fire killed around 100 in self-defense. </span></p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/future-olympics-no-country-wants-to-host-games-2018-2">No one wants to host the Olympics anymore -&#xa0;will they go away?</a></h3>        <div>            <iframe class="bijwplayerclass" data-player="jwplayer" src="https://content.jwplatform.com/players/p34fCU9Q-CEZHWCBG.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" style="margin:0px;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><script>function receiveMessage(event){ console.log(event.data.fullscreen); Android.fullscreen(event.data.fullscreen); }window.addEventListener("message", receiveMessage, false);</script>        </div>    </div>

A massive battle between US and Syrian pro-regime forces reportedly killed several Russians

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a7c907b81551b29008b46df-1500/3499036.jpg" alt="US Marines howitzer syria" data-mce-source="US Marine Corps" data-mce-caption="US Marines firing a howitzer in Syria" /><p class="source"><span>US Marine Corps</span></p><p class="caption">US Marines firing a howitzer in Syria</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul><li><strong>US-led coalition in Syria killed more than 100 Syrian regime forces on Wednesday in response to an attack on one of its bases.</strong></li><li><strong>Syrian regime forces' initial coordinated attack included tanks, howitzers and more, but only one US-backed SDF fighter was injured.</strong></li><li><strong>Regime forces were likely attempting to take an oilfield near Khusham.</strong></li></ul><hr /><p><br />The US-led coalition in Syria killed more than 100 Syrian regime forces on Wednesday after its headquarters suffered an "unprovoked attack," according to a statement from <a href="http://www.inherentresolve.mil/News/News-Releases/Article/1435218/unprovoked-attack-by-syrian-pro-regime-forces-prompts-coalition-defensive-strik/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Operation Inherent Resolve</a> and <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-usa-syria/u-s-led-coalition-pro-assad-forces-clash-in-east-syria-idUSKBN1FR3BB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reuters</a>.</p><p>Syrian regime forces <a href="https://twitter.com/jseldin/status/961646796127731715" target="_blank" rel="noopener">launched</a> a coordinated attack that included about 500 regime troops, <a href="https://twitter.com/sfrantzman/status/961606980040355840" target="_blank" rel="noopener">122mm howitzers</a>, tanks and multiple launch rocket systems on the US-backed SDF headquarters in Deir al-Zor province approximately five miles east of the Euphrates River.</p><p>The river acts as a de-confliction line between the coalition and Russian and Syrian forces.</p><p>Regime forces <a href="https://twitter.com/sfrantzman/status/961606980040355840" target="_blank" rel="noopener">operating</a> Russian-made <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/here-are-all-the-tanks-russias-arsenal-2017-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">T-55 and T-72</a> tanks fired 20-30 tank rounds within 500 feet of the SDF base, where some US troops were embedded, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenseBaron/status/961648037474029570">Pentagon press secretary Dana W. White</a>.</p><p>One SDF fighter was injured, Reuters reported.</p><p>The US-led coalition responded with "AC-130 gunships, F-15s, F-22s, Army Apache helicopter gunships and Marine Corps artillery," <a href="https://twitter.com/LucasFoxNews/status/961617576848740352" target="_blank" rel="noopener">according</a> to Fox <keyword id="6355005" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="News">News</keyword> reporter Lucas Tomlinson. CNN also <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2018/02/07/politics/us-strikes-pro-regime-forces-syria/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reported</a> that HIMARS and MQ-9 drones were used in the attack.</p><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a7c934a2cc3f02b008b456d-1500/3499007.jpg" alt="US Marines howitzers Syria" data-mce-source="US Marine Corps" data-mce-caption="US Marines firing a howitzer in Syria." /><p class="source"><span>US Marine Corps</span></p><p class="caption">US Marines firing a howitzer in Syria.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>"Along with ground based fire support, these aircraft released multiple precision fire munitions and conducted strafing runs against the aggressor force, stopping their advance and destroying multiple artillery pieces and tanks," Lt. Col. Damien Pickart, a spokesperson for US Air Forces CENTCOM, told CNN.</p><p>The coalition's counter-attack killed more than 100 regime forces, Reuters reported, but a Syrian commander said that only seven were killed and 27 were injured.</p><p>Reuters reported that regime forces were likely trying to take an oilfield near Khusham, citing a US official.</p><p>Syrian state media characterized the event differently, saying the US had bombed "popular local forces fighting" ISIS, and that it was a US "attempt to support terrorism."</p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/vince-stephanie-shane-mcmahon-wwe-successor-triple-h-jim-ross-wrestling-2018-1">JIM ROSS: Here's who will take over WWE after Vince McMahon</a></h3>        <div>            <iframe class="bijwplayerclass" data-player="jwplayer" src="https://content.jwplatform.com/players/BDTTW4pO-CEZHWCBG.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" style="margin:0px;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><script>function receiveMessage(event){ console.log(event.data.fullscreen); Android.fullscreen(event.data.fullscreen); }window.addEventListener("message", receiveMessage, false);</script>        </div>    </div>

The US reportedly killed more than 100 Russian and Syrian-backed fighters in a 3-hour military blitz

<p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a85c1c3d0307229008b4725-2100/original-1.jpg" alt="US Army Apache helicopter joint air-to-ground missile Yuma Proving Ground" data-mce-source="US Army/Tad Browning, Army Operational Test Command Public Affairs" data-mce-caption="Pilots fire the new Joint Air-to-Ground Missile during testing at Cibola Range, Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, in support of deliberate-attack mission against armored-ground-vehicle targets." /><p class="source"><span>US Army/Tad Browning, Army Operational Test Command Public Affairs</span></p><p class="caption">Pilots fire the new Joint Air-to-Ground Missile during testing at Cibola Range, Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, in support of deliberate-attack mission against armored-ground-vehicle targets.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><ul><li><strong>More details from the massive battle in Syria that reportedly killed hundreds of Russian contractors have emerged - and it looks like they tried to test the US.</strong></li><li><strong>The forces reportedly advanced and fired at a US-held position in Syria, and the US's counter-attack obliterated the forces.</strong></li><li><strong>It looks like the pro-regime Russian contractors and their Syrian and Iranian allies may be too weak to budge the US without getting the official Russian military involved.</strong></li></ul><hr /><p><br />More <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/us-kills-wounds-300-russians-in-massive-syrian-battle-reports-2018-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">details have emerged from a massive battle in Syria</a> that reportedly pitted hundreds of Russian military contractors and Syrian and Iranian pro-regime fighters against the US and its Syrian rebel allies - and it looks like it was mission to test the US's resolve.</p><p>Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-02-13/u-s-strikes-said-to-kill-scores-of-russian-fighters-in-syria" target="_blank" rel="noopener">first reported</a> this week that Russian military contractors took place in what the US called an "unprovoked attack" on a well-known headquarters of the Syrian Democratic Forces, a rebel cohort the US has trained, equipped, and fought alongside for years.</p><p>Reuters <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/us-kills-wounds-300-russians-in-massive-syrian-battle-reports-2018-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">quoted a number of other sources</a> on Friday that confirmed Russian contractors were among the attackers, and that they took heavy losses. The purpose of the attack, which saw 500 or so pro-regime fighters get close to the US-backed position, was to test the US's response, according to Reuters' sources.</p><h2>How the battle played out</h2><p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5a398258b0bcd5b9008b60d7-1240/us marine artillery syria.jpg" alt="US Marine artillery syria" data-mce-source="US Marine Corps" /><p class="source"><span>US Marine Corps</span></p><p class="caption">US forces fire off artillery rounds in Syria.</p></div><p></p></div></div></p><p>Initial reports said that Syrian regime forces launched a coordinated attack that included about 500 regime troops, 122mm howitzers, tanks, and multiple launch rocket systems.</p><p>A source close to the Russian military contracting firm, Wagner, told Reuters that the majority of the 500 were Russians, and they <span>advanced into a zone designated as neutral under a deal between the Russian military and the US-led coalition against ISIS.</span></p><p><span>The Russian-led troops reportedly sought to find out how the US would react to the encroachment into what should be a neutral zone.</span></p><p><span>Regime forces <a href="https://twitter.com/sfrantzman/status/961606980040355840" target="_blank" rel="noopener">operating</a> Russian-made <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/here-are-all-the-tanks-russias-arsenal-2017-6" target="_blank" rel="noopener">T-55 and T-72</a> tanks fired 20-30 tank rounds within 500 feet of the SDF base, which held some US troops, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenseBaron/status/961648037474029570">Pentagon press secretary Dana W. White</a>.</span></p><p><span>The US-led coalition responded with "AC-130 gunships, F-15s, F-22s, Army Apache helicopter gunships and Marine Corps artillery," according to Fox <keyword id="6355005" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="News">News</keyword> reporter Lucas Tomlinson. CNN also reported that HIMARS and MQ-9 drones were used in the attack.</span></p><p><span>"First of all the bombers attacked, and then they cleaned up using Apaches (attack helicopters)," Yevgeny Shabayev, a Cossack paramilitary leader with ties to Russia's military contractors, told Reuters.</span></p><p><span>An anonymous source told Reuters that Bloomberg's report that 300 Russians died was "broadly correct." The US <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/us-syria-killed-100-russian-syrian-backed-fighters-2018-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">reported more than 100 dead</a>.</span></p><p><span>The Pentagon maintains that only one SDF fighter was injured in the attack.</span></p><h2><span>What might the Russians have learned from the 'test'?</span></h2><p><span><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/56e71ffa91058428008b6470-950/screen shot 2016-03-14 at 4.32.06 pm.png" alt="su 24 frogfoot syria" data-mce-source="Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation" data-mce-caption="Russia announced it will pull the bulk of its troops from Syria starting March 15, in a process that could take up to 5 months. (Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation)" /><p class="source"><span>Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation</span></p><p class="caption">Russia's military aircraft at based in Syria.</p></div><p></p></div></div></span></p><p><span>The pro-regime forces operated without air cover from Russia's proper military. The US warned Russia of the attack, but it's unclear if Russia's military passed on notice to the troops on the ground.</span></p><p><span>"The warning was 20 minutes beforehand, in that time it was not feasible to turn the column around," a source told Reuters.</span></p><p><span><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/russian-mercenaries-dying-in-syria-2018-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reports increasingly indicate</a> that Russia has taken to using military contractors as a means of concealing their combat losses as they look to bolster Syrian President Bashar Assad's flagging forces.</span></p><p><span>Igor Girkin, the former <keyword id="6354810" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Defense">defense</keyword> minister for the self-declared Donetsk Peoples Republic, a separatist region backed by Russia in eastern Ukraine, <a href="http://www.uawire.org/news/strelkov-kremlin-found-a-way-to-conceal-military-losses-in-syria">said</a> last week that Russian mercenaries operating in Syria who died in combat were cremated on sight to hide the true cost of Russia's involvement.</span></p><p><span>As the US's declared mission in Syria of fighting ISIS nears completion, its other motives have taken center stage. The US recently <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/us-2000-troops-syria-strategy-refocuses-on-combating-iran-70000-2018-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">declared it would stop Iran from gaining control of a land bridge</a> to its ally, Lebanon, citing concern that Tehran would arm anti-US and anti-Israeli Hezbollah militants if given the chance.</span></p><p><span>On top of that mission, the US appears intent on staying on top of Assad's oilfields in the east, to <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/us-syria-assad-remove-north-korea-2018-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">deny him the economic infrastructure</a> to regain control of the entire country and to force UN-sanctioned elections.</span></p><p>The pro-regime attempt to test the US military in Syria proved costly, and it appears now that without the full air power of the Russian military behind them, Assad's forces may be too weak to budge the US.</p>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/vince-stephanie-shane-mcmahon-wwe-successor-triple-h-jim-ross-wrestling-2018-1">JIM ROSS: Here's who will take over WWE after Vince McMahon</a></h3>        <div>            <iframe class="bijwplayerclass" data-player="jwplayer" src="https://content.jwplatform.com/players/BDTTW4pO-CEZHWCBG.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" style="margin:0px;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><script>function receiveMessage(event){ console.log(event.data.fullscreen); Android.fullscreen(event.data.fullscreen); }window.addEventListener("message", receiveMessage, false);</script>        </div>    </div>

Russian military contractors reportedly tried to test the US military in Syria - but they got whooped

<p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5af20559805e891e008b45fe-2400/rtx5e7lp.jpg" border="0" alt="Tim Cook Thrilled" data-mce-source="Reuters"><p class="source"><span>Reuters</span></p></img></div><p></p></div></div><ul><li><strong>Apple filed a comment with the FCC this month urging them to apply a light regulatory touch to unused radio frequencies.&#xa0;</strong></li><li><strong>The bands Apple commented on are in the&#xa0;95 GHz-3000 GHz, which may play a part in 5G infrastructure.</strong>&#xa0;</li></ul><hr><p><a href="http://markets.businessinsider.com/stocks/aapl-stock">Apple</a>&#xa0;has urged&#xa0;the Federal Communication Commission to set aside large swaths of&#xa0; new "superhigh" spectrum for public use instead of licensing it - the latest sign that the iPhone giant is interested in playing an important role in future wireless networks, including so-called 5G wireless.&#xa0;</p><p>In a<a href="https://ecfsapi.fcc.gov/file/1050308972849/Apple%20Spectrum%20Horizons%20Comments.pdf"> filing earlier this month</a>, Apple told regulators that leaving&#xa0;radio signals unlicensed in the 95 GHz - 3000 GHz range will give rise to innovative "applications that are unfeasible today."</p><p>"Apple supports the Commission's proposal for experimental licensing in the bands above 95 GHz and believes that adopting this flexible model will help to spur innovation in the band," the company said in a May 2 letter, signed by&#xa0;Mark Neumann, a senior engineer at Apple.&#xa0;</p><p>"As the band is still largely greenfield, this is a rare opportunity to allow for freedom of exploration that does not exist in other bands and advantage should be taken," Apple continued.</p><p>Apple told the FCC it favored a light regulatory touch that would leave a greater share of the spectrum unlicensed, and open for anyone to use.</p><p>The comments were in response to the FCC's request seeking comments on how to regulate the high-bandwidth wireless spectrum, often referred to as "superhigh" spectrum.&#xa0;Apple believes that the current approach to regulation is too far in favor of established, licensed technologies, instead of emerging uses that a company like Apple might be interested in.&#xa0;</p><h2>What is this spectrum good for?</h2><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_left float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5af20389640c8b27008b464a-960/5ae7803619ee861f008b46d4-960-1045.jpg" border="0" alt="Apple Innovation Zone" data-mce-source="FCC"><p class="source"><span>FCC</span></p></img></div><p></p></div></div>Currently, the frequencies that Apple is commenting on are unused - or "greenfield," as Apple puts it.<p>But that doesn't mean that there aren't many different scientists and industry researchers who are starting to come up with ideas for those frequencies.&#xa0;</p><p>"As Apple says in its filing no one really knows what's going to happen with that very high spectrum. But since something will someday it's time to create a mechanism to use it. M<span>aybe not Apple's preferred unlicensed mechanism,</span>" wireless consultant Steve Crowley told Business Insider in an email.&#xa0;"Regulation takes time, the standardization process takes time, product development takes time. It doesn't hurt to take the first step."</p><p>The FCC took that first step earlier this year, by filing a notice inviting comment on its proposed rules, which is what Apple responded to. "Now, I realize that some are skeptical that this spectrum can be used productively," said FCC Chairman Ajit Pai in a statement <a href="https://www.fiercewireless.com/wireless/fcc-looks-to-unleash-spectrum-above-95-ghz">earlier this year</a>. "But the skeptics have been proven wrong before."</p><p>The more spectrum that remains unlicensed, the more likely it is that Apple can experiment in those radio frequencies and build them into its technology. The spectrum used by cellular networks is licensed, for example, but Wi-Fi uses unlicensed spectrum, which enabled Apple to use it in innovative ways, such as for wireless speakers and network syncing.&#xa0;</p><p>The FCC also makes money by auctioning licenses to specific bands of spectrum. And if FCC makes a new slice of spectrum unlicensed, that means Apple can access it for free.</p><p>The question remains what it could be used for, but one possibility is those frequencies could be used for infrastructure to enable "5G," or the next generation of cellular networks. "I'd expect first uses of bands 95 GHz and above to be used for 5G small cell backhaul - interconnecting the millimeter wave cells connecting handsets, and fixed users, below 95 GHz," Crowley said.</p><p>Currently, bands under study include the so-called W-band (92-114 GHz) and D-band (130-175 GHz), Crowley added.</p><h2>Apple's interest in millimeter wave</h2><p></p><div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image on-image"><img src="https://static-ssl.businessinsider.com/image/5af203a7c5fc0e2b008b463e-1424/screen%20shot%202016-08-16%20at%2050842%20pm.png" border="0" alt="apple a9 chip" data-mce-source="Apple"><p class="source"><span>Apple</span></p><p class="caption">Apple devices currently use Intel and Qualcomm modems to connect to cellular networks.</p></img></div><p></p></div></div>The filing is only the latest sign that Apple is currently experimenting with millimeter wave technologies, which are expected to be a big part of 5G networks.&#xa0;<p>Last month, Apple <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-deleted-job-listing-shows-plans-design-5g-modem-2018-4">pulled</a> a job listing off of its site for a "mmWave IC design engineer," which suggested it planned to build chips to work on 5G networks. Currently, Apple buys its modems from Qualcomm and Intel.&#xa0;</p><p>Apple has been <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-testing-5g-millimeter-wave-wireless-iphone-fcc-filing-2017-5">testing</a> millimeter wave technology in Cupertino, California since last May on the&#xa0;28 GHz and 39 GHz, bands that are lower than the ultra-high spectrum Apple commented on.&#xa0;</p><p>Earlier this year, Apple applied to make both of its Cupertino, California headquarters into "innovation zones" which would enable it to run tests more easily without regulatory headaches and applications. Apple didn't respond to a request for comment.&#xa0;</p><p>"Apple devices access spectrum in numerous licensed and unlicensed frequency bands. For example, iPhones use spectrum ranging from 13 megahertz (contactless payments via Apple Pay) to 5 gigahertz (802.11ac Wi-Fi with MIMO) and support more than 18 different LTE bands," according to the Apple application, which was also signed by&#xa0;Neumann, the senior Apple engineer.&#xa0;</p><p><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-5g-wireless-2017-7">Experts have said</a> that millimeter wave is only one technology that will make up the 5G standard, which is still being finalized. The big advantage to millimeter wave is that it can achieve very high data rates, with much more bandwidth than current cellular networks.</p><p><span>Apple CEO Tim Cook has said that Apple wants to own&#xa0;</span><a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/apple-technology-tim-cook-doctrine-2018-4">all of its core technologies</a><span>- and that likely includes the modem chips that connect Apple devices to networks like those operated by Verizon and AT&amp;T. But even if that's not part of Apple's plans, the company clearly wants to understand these extremely high frequencies well.&#xa0;</span></p><h2><span>Read Apple's entire filing:&#xa0;</span></h2><h2>&#xa0;</h2><p class="tagline">Visit  <a href="http://markets.businessinsider.com/">Markets Insider</a> for constantly updated market quotes for individual stocks, ETFs, indices, commodities and currencies traded around the world. <a href="http://markets.businessinsider.com/">Go Now!</a></p><div><p style=" margin: 12px auto 6px auto; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none; display: block;"></p></div>    <div class="margin-top">        <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/errol-morris-steve-jobs-making-of-apple-switch-ad-campaign-2018-5">Steve Jobs made 3 AM phone calls to argue about Apple ads</a></h3>        <div>            <iframe class="bijwplayerclass" data-player="jwplayer" src="https://content.jwplatform.com/players/0nZ9rb0W-CEZHWCBG.html" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" style="margin:0px;" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><script>function receiveMessage(event){ console.log(event.data.fullscreen); Android.fullscreen(event.data.fullscreen); }window.addEventListener("message", receiveMessage, false);</script>        </div>    </div></hr>

You Searched For "ac 130w" and got 10 results

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A massive battle between US and Syrian pro-regime forces reportedly killed several Russians

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The US reportedly killed more than 100 Russian and Syrian-backed fighters in a 3-hour military blitz

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Russian military contractors reportedly tried to test the US military in Syria - but they got whooped

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