The U.S. and Qatar are close to finalizing a deal for a Boeing jet that will serve as the new Air Force One. Earlier this month, Defense Secretary Pete Hegses and his Qatari counterpart signed an agreement detailing Qatar’s “unconditional donation.”
Although the Pentagon claimed the transaction was completed months ago, the official contract is set to be finalized next week, with terms already outlined in the signed document by Hegses and Saud bin Abdulman al-Thani. The contract describes the aircraft as a “true gift” to the Department of Defense, meaning the U.S. will not be making any payment for its transfer.
“This donation will be made in good faith and in a spirit of cooperation and mutual support between the parties,” the document notes. It also emphasizes that nothing in the agreement should be construed as bribery or corrupt practices.
Moreover, the memorandum clarifies that the donation isn’t linked to any government decisions and is not intended to influence past, present, or future actions.
The Pentagon declined to comment when reached for further details.
Back on May 21, the Pentagon announced it had accepted the 13-year-old luxury jet that was previously used by the Qatari royal family. President Trump noted that the aircraft could serve as a backup for the aging Air Force One fleet.
This controversial gift was initially disclosed just before Trump’s Middle East trip in May. Many lawmakers, both Democratic and Republican, have voiced concerns that this could present ethical dilemmas and raise questions about corruption, including the potential cost to taxpayers that could reach hundreds of millions of dollars while enhancing the safety of the Air Force fleet.
While Trump has referred to the planes as “gifts” or “free,” American taxpayers are expected to foot the bill for modifications necessary for the aircraft.
Air Force Secretary Troy Mike estimates that renovation costs will be “less than $400 million,” but some aviation experts suggest that the actual expenses could significantly exceed this figure.
To fund the retrofit, the Air Force plans to reallocate hundreds of millions from the Sentinel program, which is already facing budget overruns, for what appears to be an upgrade for Air Force One.
The jet is currently stationed in San Antonio.
