Actually it doesnt crash like any other aircraft. It has a unique and very survivable engine out(although there are 4 of them) scenario, including total power failure at a critical height after a vtol lift off with insufficient altitude to enter a glide. The worlds biggest flying umbrella will deposit itself back on terra firma unharmed.
A C130 with a big cannon ...yep...that would blow up ye pirates, but it couldnt stay on station 24/7 for several days, and couldnt take prisoners, or transfer them to naval vessels. A manned HAV with the appropriate radars at 5000 feet and 100 knots could detect and close/interdict with either its own weaponry or via fast boat launched out of the back at sea level and then recovered.
Or it could phone a friemd.
Dont lets get started on its famine relief /aid applications/evacuation abilities.
Its not all about shooting at things.