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Pentagon Hides Qatar-Gifted Interim Air Force One Cost in $934 Million Transfer

Lawmakers demand transparency after officials concealed the overhaul cost by diverting Sentinel ICBM modernization funds to a Qatar-gifted Boeing 747 destined for Trump’s post-2029 library.

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FILE - A 13-year-old private Boeing aircraft that President Donald Trump toured on Saturday to check out new hardware and technology features, and highlight the aircraft maker's delay in delivering updated versions of the Air Force One presidential aircraft, takes off from Palm Beach International Airport, Feb. 16, 2025, in West Palm Beach, Fla.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that 700 Marines would be deployed to assist in ICE operations in the South.
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Overview

  • In May, the Pentagon took delivery of a Qatar-gifted Boeing 747-8 to serve temporarily as Air Force One because the VC-25B replacement program has slipped to at least 2027.
  • The total cost to refurbish the jet remains classified and is believed to be buried in a $934 million transfer from the Sentinel ICBM modernization program.
  • Air Force Secretary Troy Meink acknowledged diverting surplus Sentinel funds to the renovation while insisting the missile project stays fully funded.
  • Senators Chuck Schumer and Jack Reed have demanded detailed accounting and legal clarity over the fund reallocation and potential Emoluments Clause implications.
  • The refurbished aircraft is not ready for presidential use and, per Trump, will be transferred to his presidential library after 2029.