President Donald Trump announced that the Qatari-donated aircraft serving as an interim Air Force One will undergo significant upgrades, addressing concerns about its security features.
The President stated that the jet, which began service on July 1, will be sent for comprehensive enhancements in approximately one month. This follows questions raised about the plane's missile-defense capabilities and overall security.
Trump had previously utilized the jumbo jet, a gift from Qatar, after an expedited renovation process. However, he briefly switched to an older Air Force One for a flight from Turkey to the United Kingdom amidst heightened tensions with Iran, citing a desire for "old time's sake." He subsequently returned to the new aircraft for the journey back to the United States.
The refitted Boeing 747, distinguished by a livery chosen by Trump featuring red, white, dark blue, and gold, was modified by defense contractor L3Harris Technologies. It is intended as a temporary measure while Boeing addresses significant delays and cost overruns on the two purpose-built 747-8 presidential aircraft, originally contracted for delivery in 2018 but now expected by mid-2028.
The rapid completion of upgrades on the Qatari jet had previously prompted concerns among some experts regarding its security compared to the established presidential aircraft. Additionally, the acceptance of the gift and its associated costs faced scrutiny.
Separately, journalists from The New York Times who had reported on the security features of the new aircraft were recently subpoenaed. The Times is currently seeking to quash these orders compelling their appearance before a grand jury in Manhattan federal court.
