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U.S. Weapons
of War
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U.S.
Navy
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| This undated handout photo shows an F/A-18C Hornet of the 37th Strike Fighter Squadron, "The Raging Bulls", passing over the carrier USS Enterprise in preparation for landing. |
These highly trained troops operate in small, mobile groups and are experts in reconnaissance, hostage rescue and counter-terrorist operations.
• Weapons available to a special forces team
• Positions throughout the Middle East and Asia
• How special forces can enter an area of operations
Fighter
aircraft
Fighters are the well-armed infantry of the air, providing cover and support
to ground troops, carrying out high-risk seek and destroy missions and fighting
entire battles from the air.
• Closeup:
AC-130 Gunship
Bombers
America's bomber force spans the conventionally-designed, reliable B-52 to highly
sophisticated, cutting-edge stealth technology. Dedicated bombers offer high
bomb carrying capacity, extremely long range and precision attack capability.
Cruise
missiles
America's ability to strike targets deep in enemy territory without risk to
piloted aircraft is primarily due to the cruise missile. Cruise missiles fly
under their own power, allowing pilots to release them far from anti-aircraft
sites.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are used to gather intelligence on enemy forces. They carry a wide variety of sensors and can transmit real-time or live data to commanders, fulfilling missions too dangerous for manned aircraft. Here are some of the more common UAVs in use.
• Pros and cons
Helicopters
Helicopters will play a role as the war in Afghanistan moves closer to the ground. A look at their capabilities.
• Helicopter warfare
Aircraft carriers
U.S. leaders
The U.S. Central Command oversees forces from East Africa through the Arabian Peninsula to Pakistan.