What It Would Take to Convert a Jet from Qatar into Air Force One
President Trump wishes to use a Qatari jet as an upgraded Air Force One, but security concerns complicate the plan. Retrofits could cost up to $1.5 billion, with significant delays expected. The Air Force must balance Trump’s desire for speed against national security requirements, raising questions about potential shortcuts in safety measures. Applicable findings indicate Boeing’s ongoing challenges could hinder the delivery of new 747s, leaving open concerns regarding the Qatari plane’s readiness.
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump is interested in utilizing a luxury jet from the Qatari royal family as an upgraded Air Force One, but this endeavor raises significant security concerns. Legal discussions are currently underway to finalize the arrangement, as government lawyers must ensure that the aircraft meets the necessary safety protocols to transport the president. However, there is a real possibility that, in order to meet Trump’s desire for immediate use, some security modifications might be overlooked.
Air Force Secretary Troy Meink mentioned that essential security upgrades could cost under $400 million, but specifics were not given. This financial aspect comes on top of the fact that any retrofitting will likely encounter delays similar to those affecting Boeing’s new 747s, which have faced their own share of challenges. A White House official stated Trump desires the Qatari aircraft ready quickly, adhering to standards, but details regarding the timeline or equipment remain vague.
Trump’s awareness of the threats he faces is clear, having survived two assassination attempts and other plots against him. Nevertheless, he seems to be open to risks regarding some aspects of his security, especially in communications. The president recently declared that the government acquired the Qatari jet “for free,” insisting there is a necessity for it as a temporary Air Force One until the current aircraft are replaced.
In terms of what it takes to convert the plane, Air Force One is essentially any aircraft transporting the president. The very first was a C-54 Skymaster that Franklin D. Roosevelt used back in 1945, featuring a bulletproof window. Today’s standards are technically more complex. Boeing has been spending years constructing two new 747s intended to replace the older models, and the project is forecasted to surpass $5.3 billion, possibly not completing before the end of Trump’s term.
A 2021 report shed light on the vital factors for the new aircraft, notably survivability and communication systems. The government stipulated a requirement for four engines in the new planes, meant to ensure they remain airborne even if one or two fail, presenting a challenge since 747s are no longer being manufactured. The security landscape includes need-to-have features like advanced communication systems, defenses against espionage, and more.
If the Qatari plane is to be upgraded to these standards, estimates suggest costs could soar to $1.5 billion with timelines extending for several years. However, Secretary Meink dismissed such high figures, stating that many expenses would align with those already incurred for the current aircraft developments. Representative Joe Courtney pointed out that, based on contracts for the planes, retrofitting the Qatari jet could cost around $1 billion.
Meanwhile, there is contention over whether Trump will indeed opt for all the security upgrades. As the Commander in Chief, he holds the authority to waive some of these security protocols if he deems necessary, which might potentially expose his communications to vulnerabilities during a crisis. Boeing has already reduced the range and other abilities of the upcoming 747s, likely hinting at the president’s flexibility regarding security measures.
In terms of appearances, though, it’s pretty evident that Trump won’t want to compromise. He has a model of the new Air Force One in the Oval Office, reflecting his personal tastes rather than the traditional light blue design.
Earlier this year, Trump inspected the Qatari jet alongside Air Force chief of staff Gen. David Allvin. According to officials, the plane requires maintenance usual for a four-engine aircraft but not more than anticipated. Senator Tammy Duckworth expressed concerns, deeming it reckless to utilize the Qatari plane unless it meets stringent national security standards.
Complications persist within Boeing’s project as they address issues like stress corrosion and excessive cabin noise, which have contributed to delays. The Air Force has stated they are collaborating with Boeing to hasten the arrival of at least one of the new 747s. But there remain significant hurdles before any aircraft could be deemed operational. Ultimately, how President Trump navigates these challenges remains uncertain, with an awareness that typically, constraints are loosened when he seeks expedited results.
Converting a Qatari luxury jet into a functional Air Force One for President Trump presents numerous security challenges and significant financial commitments. While there’s a desire for expediency, amending the aircraft to meet the rigorous safety and communications standards necessary may take substantial time and funds, not to mention require overlooking some security aspects. Whether Trump chooses to prioritize aesthetics over rigid safety protocols is still up for debate, raising questions about how national security will be maintained if he bypasses some requirements. With ongoing issues at Boeing further complicating things, it remains to be seen how successfully these objectives can be achieved without compromising the president’s safety.
Original Source: www.thespec.com
