Washington: The US President Donald Trump has confirmed the Qatar Air Force One jet will undergo extensive technical upgrades after concerns emerged over its security features.
Trump stated that the aircraft, donated by Qatar, will be sent for what was described as maximum upgrades. The move has followed scrutiny from experts who have questioned whether the rapid refurbishment met the strict standards required for presidential use.
The jet entered service on July 1 as part of an accelerated programme to prepare the aircraft for presidential use. Trump began flying aboard the modified Boeing 747 under the same accelerated effort. The plane serves as a temporary replacement while delays continue in the delivery of new Air Force One aircraft.
An unexpected change in travel plans drew attention to the jet. Trump switched to an older Air Force One during a flight from Turkey to the United Kingdom on July 8. The decision came amid rising tensions with Iran, with Trump indicating the switch was made for familiarity.
The US Air Force did not provide an immediate response regarding the planned upgrades. The aircraft was refitted by L3Harris Technologies (LHX.N), with a red, white, dark blue and gold livery selected by Trump.
The aircraft serves as a stopgap solution as Boeing (BA.N) continues to face delays in delivering two next-generation Air Force One planes. The project runs four years behind schedule and exceeds the agreed budget under a $3.9 billion (£3.0 billion) fixed-price contract signed in 2018, while delivery remains expected in mid-2028.
Concerns centre on the speed of the jet’s modifications, with some experts suggesting the aircraft may not match the security capabilities of the earlier Air Force One. The previous aircraft remains recognised for its advanced protection systems and long-established reliability.
The decision to accept the jet from Qatar also draws criticism, as questions persist over the cost and suitability of using a gifted aircraft for presidential duties. Trump maintains that further upgrades will address the issues and enhance the aircraft’s capabilities.
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