US prepares Qatari jet for use as Air Force One
The multi-million dollar project
The US government has begun preparations to transform a Qatari jet into the iconic Air Force One presidential aircraft, ready for when the current Boeing 747s in the fleet reach the end of their lifespan. It is estimated the total project will cost around $3.8 billion, covering the purchase of the aircraft itself, and extensive modifications to meet the top-secret security requirements of the President. Modifications are expected to take up to four years; the President will reportedly select any final finishes and amenities himself.
The history of Air Force One
The first use of the Air Force One callsign was in 1953, when a VC-137A aircraft carried President Dwight Eisenhower to Europe. In 1962, President John F Kennedy became the first President to fly in a jet customised specifically for presidential use - a Boeing 707. Since then, Boeing 747-200s and 747-8s have served as Air Force One, with the current aircraft being upgraded specifically for the President. The Air Force One fleet is managed by the White House Military Office, which also has a budget of over $5 billion overseeing a wide range of transportation and medical services.
Security considerations
Modifications to the Qatari jet will include the addition of secure communications equipment, defence systems, and other undisclosed technologies to protect the President. It is believed that the jet will have advanced defence systems to protect against electromagnetic pulses, along with reinforced windows and a specialised interior to protect the President from any attack. The jet will join a fleet of two other Air Force One aircraft, which are currently active and being maintained. The new aircraft is expected to have a longer lifespan than the current Boeing 747s, which have been in service since the early 90s. It is not yet clear whether the new jet will be assigned to the current Air Force One callsign, or whether the Air Force One designation will continue to be used for whichever aircraft the President is aboard.
