Overview
- Flight-tracking data show the E-4B flew from Offutt Air Force Base to Joint Base Andrews on January 6, 2026.
- Officials and defense analysts characterize the movement as standard positioning for preparedness rather than a crisis response.
- The E-4B serves as the National Airborne Operations Center, providing a survivable command post for U.S. leadership during catastrophic disruptions.
- The U.S. Air Force operates four E-4Bs under the 1st Airborne Command and Control Squadron, with at least one maintained on alert at all times.
- The aircraft is widely reported to feature EMP and nuclear hardening with extensive secure communications and can remain aloft far beyond its ~12-hour unrefueled endurance through aerial refueling, with missions recorded up to about 35.4 hours.