Overview

• An Air Force spokesperson confirmed modification work has started on the Qatari 747, with the aircraft designated for executive airlift support.
• Specifics on the scope of the upgrades, the contract terms, and the contractor remain classified, though multiple outlets have previously reported L3Harris as the likely vendor.
• Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told lawmakers the retrofit will probably cost under $400 million, while some critics contend the total could approach $1 billion.
• Retrofitting a foreign 747 for secure missions is expected to be extensive, with reporting indicating the jet may be stripped to its frame and rebuilt with systems coordinated across the Secret Service, CIA, NSA, and the White House Communications Agency.
• The Pentagon accepted the 747-8 in May after persistent VC-25B delays, and estimates reported by a retired senior military official suggest a completion window of several months to two years.