eli5 why does the ac-130 have propellers instead of jet engines?
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Turbo props have a number of advantages over jets for small to medium sized aircraft.
A turbo prop is still a jet engine, but instead of relying on shooting hot gases out the back to push you forward they attach a propeller to the front that is spun by the turbine shaft. (Yes there is a bit of thrust from the exhaust gas as well, stop being pedantic)
A turboprop is a lot lighter than a traditional piston engine, but smaller and more fuel efficient than a pure jet. This makes them slower than jets, but more efficient and they cost less to operate.
Turbo props also react much more quickly to throttle changes because they adjust the pitch of the propeller. This is great if you need to land or take over on shorter runways, and it cuts down on pilot mistakes due to throttle lag.
Turbo props are also great for operating on gravel and unprepared runways because they are a lot less likely to inhale and get damaged by rocks, dirt, and other debris.
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