The United States has officially accepted a luxurious Boeing 747 from Qatar to serve as the new Air Force One, as confirmed by the Department of Defense in a statement to ABC News on Wednesday. This significant development highlights the ongoing collaboration between the U.S. and Qatar and marks a notable upgrade in the aircraft designated for presidential transport.
Sean Parnell, the chief Pentagon spokesman, stated that the Secretary of Defense has adhered to all federal rules and regulations in the acceptance of this aircraft. The Department of Defense is committed to implementing robust security measures and ensuring that the aircraft meets all functional-mission requirements necessary for safely transporting the President of the United States.
Troy Meink, the Secretary of the Air Force, emphasized during a Senate hearing on Tuesday that the Air Force will take the lead in ensuring that the newly acquired aircraft meets stringent security standards suitable for transporting President Donald Trump. Meink noted that the Secretary of Defense has tasked the Air Force with initiating plans to modify the Qatari-owned jet, indicating preparedness for the transition.
An Air Force spokesperson confirmed to ABC News that the military branch would soon issue a contract for the necessary modifications to the Qatari jet. However, they highlighted that specific details regarding the contract remain classified, underscoring the sensitive nature of the operation.
In parallel, Boeing continues to work on producing two new versions of the presidential aircraft, which have faced several delays over recent years. This ongoing production reflects the company's commitment to providing state-of-the-art technology for presidential travel.
This situation is still evolving, and the Department of Defense is expected to release further updates as the process unfolds. For the latest information on the new Air Force One and related developments, be sure to check back frequently.
