What It Would Take to Convert a Jet From Qatar Into Air Force One…

President Trump aims to convert a Qatari jet into an upgraded Air Force One, but security modifications may cost up to $1.5 billion and face significant delays. Legal arrangements are still being sorted out while the White House seeks to have the plane operational quickly. Prioritizing speed over security could compromise the safety measures typically afforded to the presidential aircraft.

As President Donald Trump seeks to upgrade Air Force One, he is eyeing a luxury jet provided by the Qatari royal family. However, converting the aircraft to meet the stringent security standards necessary for presidential transport is complicated, and could face significant hurdles. Discussions are underway regarding legal arrangements and necessary modifications, particularly security features that might skirt Trump’s timeline for use.

Air Force Secretary Troy Meink indicated that security modifications could cost around $400 million, although he did not go into specifics. Nonetheless, a source at the White House, speaking anonymously, noted that the president desires to have the Qatari jet operational soon while still meeting security requirements. Trump himself remarked this week about the jet being obtained “for free,” expressing urgency in making it Air Force One until the new replacements are fully operational.

The concept of Air Force One has evolved since its inception. The name is used for any aircraft carrying the president. The first was a C-54 Skymaster used by Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1945. Today, it involves extensive modifications for security and communication. Boeing’s ongoing project to replace the current 747 designs is expected to cost over $5.3 billion, and it has reportedly faced numerous delays.

According to a report from 2021, modern Air Force One planes must feature advanced communications and survivability capabilities. A requirement stipulated over a decade ago mandated planes have four engines for redundancy in case of failure—complicated by the fact that 747s are no longer manufactured, making maintenance more challenging. Furthermore, these planes must provide a high level of secure communication, anti-jamming technology, and protections against surveillance.

There is a significant price tag tied to retrofitting the Qatari jet. Estimates suggest that to equip the aircraft to presidential standards could surpass $1.5 billion and take several years. However, Meink contested such estimates, claiming that many costs related to the retrofitting would overlap with ongoing expenses associated with outfitting new presidential aircraft, including training and spare parts.

Congressman Joe Courtney estimates stripping down the Qatari plane and installing necessary upgrades could reach approximately $1 billion. He also noted that the procedures involved in simply redoing the wiring would require major overhauls of the aircraft. Trump as commander in chief possesses the authority to waive some of these requirements, which might expedite the process but could compromise security.

Trump’s true preferences for the jet’s layout remain to be seen. When he viewed the Qatari jet in February, he was reportedly quite interested, stating a desire to blend the plane’s appearance with his vision for a modernized Air Force One. Yet, as issues with Boeing’s project continue — including stress corrosion and excessive cabin noise — some senators, like Democrat Tammy Duckworth, express concern about risking national security with the Qatari jet if not equipped to withstand major threats.

With ongoing complications surrounding the development of new Air Force One planes, eyes are on how Trump will navigate the challenges with the Qatari jet. Questions remain on whether he will prioritize speed over thorough security measures. As noted by past officials, any potential waivers should remain discreet to protect the aircraft’s vulnerabilities. The broader implications for national security and taxpayer money remain key considerations for this high-stakes decision awaiting Trump’s resolution.

AP writer Lolita C. Baldor contributed to this report.

In summary, President Trump’s quest for an upgraded Air Force One could run into serious security and budget challenges. Converting the Qatari jet involves complex modifications that could exceed $1.5 billion and take years to complete. Though the urgency from Trump is apparent, whether he will prioritize security standards or expediency remains to be seen as national and taxpayer implications loom large in this ongoing scenario.

Original Source: www.thespec.com