AC-130 Spectre Gunship - Wicked Wanda paper art print by Craig Tinder

HISTORICAL PAPER ART BY CRAIG TINDER

AC-130 Spectre Gunship - Wicked Wanda Art Print

$29.99

Pairs well with

Archival-quality print · Craig Tinder artwork · Made in the USA
ABOUT THE ARTWORK

The Story Behind the Print:

The AC-130 Spectre grew from the U.S. Air Force’s Vietnam-era gunship program, transforming the C-130 transport into a heavily armed aircraft built to remain over the battlefield and deliver sustained, highly accurate fire in support of troops on the ground. The gunship’s side-firing weapons, sensors, and ability to orbit a target gave aircrews a unique combination of endurance, precision, and firepower.

The AC-130H Spectre became closely associated with the 16th Special Operations Squadron, whose crews used the aircraft for close air support, air interdiction, armed reconnaissance, and force protection. Across decades of service, Spectres supported operations from Vietnam and Grenada to Desert Storm, the Balkans, and Afghanistan, repeatedly placing aircrews in demanding low-altitude and nighttime combat environments.

One of the aircraft type’s most sobering chapters came during Operation Desert Storm, when AC-130H Spirit 03 was lost on January 31, 1991 while supporting U.S. Marines during the Battle of Khafji. All 14 crew members were killed. The loss remains an enduring part of the Spectre community’s history and underscores the risks accepted by the crews who flew these missions.

The AC-130H completed its final mission with the 16th Special Operations Squadron in January 2014, closing more than four decades of operational service. This artwork honors the aircraft and the generations of Spectre crews whose mission was to protect friendly forces from above.

This paper print does not include an authentic historical relic.

PRINT DETAILS

ABOUT THE PRINT

Each In Action Print is professionally produced using archival-quality inks on premium fine-art paper selected for excellent detail, color reproduction, and longevity. The larger scene format preserves the atmosphere, historical details, and storytelling of Craig Tinder's original artwork.

AVAILABLE SIZES

  • 18" × 12" (45.7 × 30.5 cm)
  • 24" × 16" (61 × 40.6 cm)

FRAMING & PRODUCTION

Prints are sold unframed and are sized to fit widely available ready-made frames and mats, eliminating the need for custom framing in most cases. Each print is produced to order; please allow approximately 2–3 business days for production before shipment.

ABOUT CRAIG TINDER

Craig Tinder is an artist and historical researcher whose work brings significant moments in military and aviation history to life. For more than 20 years, he has combined detailed research with traditional and digital illustration techniques to create historically accurate artwork for collectors, veterans, museums, and historical organizations.

Craig has been commissioned to create artwork, installations, and memorial projects for museums, military organizations, and historical institutions throughout the United States. His work is held in museum and private collections around the world, reflecting a career built around historical accuracy, craftsmanship, and preserving the stories behind the subjects he depicts.

Every Aces In Action artwork is created by Craig Tinder, making Aces In Action the official home of his historical artwork and collectibles.

Meet Craig Tinder →

SHIPPING & CARE

SHIPPING

Each print is produced to order and carefully packaged for shipment. Please allow approximately 2–3 business days for production before your order ships. Delivery times vary by destination and shipping method.

International orders are welcome. Customers outside the United States are responsible for any applicable customs duties, taxes, or import fees.

CARE

For long-term display, keep your print away from prolonged direct sunlight, excessive moisture, and high humidity. When framing, archival-quality mats and framing materials are recommended to help protect the artwork over time.

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IN ACTION PRINT EXPERIENCE

Framed Display Example

Rich in historical detail and atmosphere, In Action Prints turn Craig Tinder's full-scene artwork into a striking framed display.

Created by Artist Craig Tinder

Each print begins with Craig Tinder's original historically researched artwork.

Print Size Reference

Compare available print sizes and see their approximate scale.