Air Force to Receive Qatari Jet-Turned-Air Force One this Summer
The U.S. Air Force is set to acquire a luxury Qatari jet, which is being converted into a new Air Force One. This delivery is anticipated during the summer of 2026, following extensive modifications that started last year.
Timeline for Delivery and Modifications
An Air Force spokesperson confirmed that the VC-25 bridge aircraft’s delivery would occur no later than summer 2026. However, it remains uncertain whether the aircraft will be operational immediately after delivery, as additional testing may be required before the jet can be used by the President.
Modification Details
The luxury Boeing 747, donated by Qatar, will undergo significant upgrades to meet security and intelligence requirements. Reports indicate that the aircraft will be stripped down to its frame and rebuilt with essential communications and security systems. The aim is to ensure the aircraft can adequately serve its purpose as Air Force One.
- Intensive checks for security vulnerabilities.
- Integration of mid-air refueling capabilities.
- Enhanced command and control systems for emergency situations.
The United States is collaborating with various government entities to enforce rigorous security measures for the aircraft. The agreement between U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Qatari officials stated that the donation is unconditional, meaning the U.S. will not incur costs for the jet itself, although significant funds will be allocated for its conversion.
Costs and Challenges
The total cost for modifying the aircraft is expected to be around $400 million, as indicated by Air Force Secretary Troy Meink. This conversion is just one component of the broader project to provide the U.S. with new Air Force One jets.
Future Air Force One Jets
Boeing has also been tasked with renovating two additional 747 jets under a separate agreement valued at $3.9 billion. Initial plans aimed for completion by 2024, but the project has faced substantial delays and cost overruns. Financial reports suggest Boeing has incurred losses above $2.3 billion due to these setbacks.
As of now, it is unclear when the next generation of Air Force One jets will be ready for service, with earliest projections extending into the next year.
In the meantime, incidents affecting the current fleet have prompted actions. Recently, an electrical issue caused President Trump’s aircraft to return to Joint Base Andrews, leading him to switch to a Boeing C-32A for his European trip.
