Overview
- The Coast Guard confirmed a contract for two used Gulfstream G700 long‑range command‑and‑control aircraft, reported at $172 million, with some critics citing figures near $200 million.
- House Democrats Rosa DeLauro and Lauren Underwood asked Secretary Kristi Noem to explain the jump from a May request for one $50 million replacement to two jets and to detail the funding sources.
- DHS and Coast Guard leaders say the aircraft replace nearly 20‑year‑old jets that logged 30 days of unplanned maintenance and six canceled missions since January 2025.
- Officials emphasized the planes support secure communications and mobility for DHS leadership and Coast Guard commanders, not solely the secretary, with Noem saying Congress appropriated the money.
- Questions persist about procurement specifics and costs, including reported training and cabin upgrades, as DHS declined to provide detailed funding answers in new statements.