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US Air Force Has Begun Modifying Donated Qatar Jet that Could Be New Air Force One
The Boeing 747 donated by Qatar is undergoing extensive retrofitting by multiple U.S. agencies to meet security and communication needs, with costs expected under $400 million.
- As of September 15, 2025, the U.S. Air Force commenced alterations to a Boeing 747 provided by Qatar during the summer, intended to serve in executive airlift roles.
- The modification follows Qatar's donation amid a strong US-Qatari security partnership, despite recent regional tensions and bipartisan congressional concerns.
- The overhaul involves stripping and rebuilding the aircraft with classified security and communication systems by multiple government agencies, with details undisclosed.
- Force Secretary Troy Meink estimated retrofit costs below $400 million, while critics argue it may approach $1 billion; the process could take several months to two years.
- President Trump expressed intent to use the plane as a temporary Air Force One starting February 2026, highlighting delays with new presidential aircraft programs.
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USAF Starts Modifying 747 to Serve as Air Force One
The Air Force has started modifying a Boeing 747 donated by Qatar for “executive airlift,” a spokesperson said Sept. 15. President Donald Trump has said he wants to fly the jet as “Air Force One” since new presidential transports, held up by delays, won’t be ready until after his term is over. “As directed by the Secretary of War, the Air Force is modifying a Boeing 747 aircraft for Executive Airlift support,” the Air Force spokesperson said in…
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Total News Sources11
Leaning Left1Leaning Right1Center8Last UpdatedBias Distribution80% Center
Bias Distribution
- 80% of the sources are Center
80% Center
C 80%
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