Preparations are underway for a Qatari jumbo jet, valued at $400 million, to be transformed into Air Force One for President Donald Trump, as reported by CBS and BBC's US news partner. The aircraft will be donated by Qatar as an "unconditional" gift, with the US government covering any necessary retrofitting expenses. This arrangement has faced backlash from various political factions, with several critics labeling it as a "bribe" from a foreign entity. The White House maintains that the donation is lawful and intends to transfer the jet to Trump's presidential library upon his departure from the Oval Office.
According to a memorandum of understanding between Qatar and the US Department of Defense obtained by CBS, the aircraft will be given "as is," with the Pentagon overseeing the essential modifications for its use as the presidential transport. Essential security checks, including surveillance sweeps for espionage, must be completed before the jet can be operational. The memorandum clearly states that "nothing in this MOU shall be construed as an offer, promise or acceptance of bribery."
The acceptance of the Qatari jet stirred immediate outrage from multiple corners of US politics, including Trump's conservative supporters. Commentator Ben Shapiro described it as "skeezy," while right-wing influencer Laura Loomer stated that taking the plane would leave a "stain" on the administration. The BBC has sought comments from the White House regarding the ongoing plans.
The necessity of a new Air Force One stems from the outdated fleet, which consists of two 747-200 jets in use since 1990, complemented by a set of more discreet 757s. Earlier this year, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Boeing regarding two new aircraft bound for Air Force One, suggesting alternatives could be pursued, including securing a plane as a gift.
Despite Trump's assertions that accepting the Qatari jet is a "great gesture," critics challenge the constitutionality of the decision. California Senator Adam Schiff cited constitutional prohibitions against accepting gifts from foreign governments without congressional approval. Under current regulations, officials may only accept gifts valued below $480, making this donation highly questionable.
The White House has rebutted claims of illegality regarding the donation, asserting that all legal aspects are being thoroughly reviewed. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the importance of compliance in any governmental donations. Following Trump's tenure, he has indicated that the aircraft would be designated for his presidential library, typically showcasing documents and memorabilia.
Cost estimates for retrofitting the aircraft are still under wraps, but experts suggest the total could soar into the hundreds of millions, or even reach one billion dollars. Modifications are expected to include advanced security features, mid-flight refueling capabilities, and defenses against nuclear electromagnetic pulses. A defense official disclosed to CBS that funding for modifications might be sourced from the well-funded Sentinel program, aimed at developing newer intercontinental ballistic missiles.
According to a memorandum of understanding between Qatar and the US Department of Defense obtained by CBS, the aircraft will be given "as is," with the Pentagon overseeing the essential modifications for its use as the presidential transport. Essential security checks, including surveillance sweeps for espionage, must be completed before the jet can be operational. The memorandum clearly states that "nothing in this MOU shall be construed as an offer, promise or acceptance of bribery."
The acceptance of the Qatari jet stirred immediate outrage from multiple corners of US politics, including Trump's conservative supporters. Commentator Ben Shapiro described it as "skeezy," while right-wing influencer Laura Loomer stated that taking the plane would leave a "stain" on the administration. The BBC has sought comments from the White House regarding the ongoing plans.
The necessity of a new Air Force One stems from the outdated fleet, which consists of two 747-200 jets in use since 1990, complemented by a set of more discreet 757s. Earlier this year, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Boeing regarding two new aircraft bound for Air Force One, suggesting alternatives could be pursued, including securing a plane as a gift.
Despite Trump's assertions that accepting the Qatari jet is a "great gesture," critics challenge the constitutionality of the decision. California Senator Adam Schiff cited constitutional prohibitions against accepting gifts from foreign governments without congressional approval. Under current regulations, officials may only accept gifts valued below $480, making this donation highly questionable.
The White House has rebutted claims of illegality regarding the donation, asserting that all legal aspects are being thoroughly reviewed. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the importance of compliance in any governmental donations. Following Trump's tenure, he has indicated that the aircraft would be designated for his presidential library, typically showcasing documents and memorabilia.
Cost estimates for retrofitting the aircraft are still under wraps, but experts suggest the total could soar into the hundreds of millions, or even reach one billion dollars. Modifications are expected to include advanced security features, mid-flight refueling capabilities, and defenses against nuclear electromagnetic pulses. A defense official disclosed to CBS that funding for modifications might be sourced from the well-funded Sentinel program, aimed at developing newer intercontinental ballistic missiles.
