US Targets July 4th to Launch Qatar-Gifted Jet as New Air Force One

• Qatar's gift of the jet, valued at $400 million list price, has sparked conflict of interest concerns from ethics experts, though Trump dismissed criticism calling it 'stupid' to refuse
• The aircraft has completed modifications including security upgrades, anti-missile defenses, and secure communications, and is currently being painted with a new red, white and gold color scheme
• Boeing's official VC-25B replacement program is four years behind schedule with costs ballooning from $3.9 billion to over $5 billion, prompting leadership changes including hiring former Northrop Grumman executive Steve Sullivan

Summary: US Targets July 4th Launch for Qatar-Gifted Air Force One

The U.S. Air Force aims to deliver a Boeing 747 gifted by Qatar as a new Air Force One by July 4, 2025, coinciding with America's 250th anniversary. The 13-year-old aircraft, with a $400 million list price, was accepted by President Trump despite criticism from ethics watchdogs who warned of potential conflicts of interest.

Key Details:

• L3Harris is retrofitting the Qatari jet with presidential-standard security upgrades, including anti-missile defenses and secure communications
• The aircraft has completed modification and flight testing and is currently being painted
• Delivery may occur as early as June 14 (Trump's birthday), three weeks ahead of the July 4 target

Official Program Challenges:

Boeing's contracted replacement program faces significant delays and cost overruns. The two 747-8 aircraft under development are four years behind schedule, with delivery now expected in 2028—potentially after Trump's term ends in January 2029. The fixed-price contract, originally worth $3.9 billion in 2018, has ballooned beyond $5 billion, resulting in $2.4 billion in charges for Boeing. The company recently appointed Steve Sullivan, a former Northrop Grumman executive, to lead the troubled program.

Additional Developments:

• The Air Force unveiled a new red, white, and gold paint scheme for executive aircraft, replacing the Kennedy-era blue design
• In December, the Air Force acquired two former Lufthansa 747-8i aircraft for $400 million for training and spare parts
• The current Air Force One fleet, consisting of two modified 747-200B aircraft, has been in service since 1990