US military signals Qatari jet on track for Air Force One use

The U.S. Air Force signaled on Friday that a luxury jet donated by Qatar is on track to be temporarily used as Air Force One as soon as this summer.

The service announced in a news release that it has finished modifying and testing the Boeing 747, which is currently being repainted in President Trump’s preferred red, white and blue color scheme.

Officials said the jet would help “relieve pressure on the aging VC-25A fleet” until Boeing can deliver new planes, which have been delayed and are now expected in 2028.

“Our commitment to providing the President with a secure, resilient and reliable airborne command post is unwavering,” said Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach in a statement. “The VC-25B Bridge program is a testament to the Air Force’s ability to innovate and rapidly evolve to ensure the continuity of our government under any conditions.”

The Air Force did not specify what modifications had been made to the jet; however, The Wall Street Journal reported that the $400 million renovation focused on “top-secret communications gear” rather than aesthetics.

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