US President Donald Trump has announced that the Qatari-donated Boeing 747 serving as Air Force One will undergo extensive security upgrades.
Speaking on Sunday, Trump stated the aircraft would be sent away for modifications to ensure it is 'maxed out' in terms of security capabilities, addressing ongoing questions about the plane's defensive features.
The aircraft, accepted as a gift from Qatar, has been the subject of significant political debate and criticism regarding its $400 million cost and the nature of the donation.
The decision comes shortly after Trump took his first flight aboard the retrofitted jet, officially inducting it into the presidential fleet.
The aircraft, accepted as a gift from Qatar, has been the subject of significant political debate and criticism regarding its $400 million cost and the nature of the donation.
The requirement for additional upgrades highlights the technical and diplomatic challenges associated with integrating foreign-donated assets into the US presidential fleet.
While the initial retrofitting was intended to meet strict security standards, the administration's acknowledgment of further necessary work suggests that the aircraft's readiness for full operational duty may face delays or additional expenditures.