Qatar‑donated VC‑25B Bridge Aircraft Delivered to US Air Force

L3Harris Technologies completed a ten‑month conversion of a Qatar‑donated Boeing 747‑8 into the VC‑25B Bridge aircraft and delivered it to the U.S. Air Force on June 19 2026. The jet, painted in a red, white and blue scheme, serves as an interim Air Force One while two next‑generation VC‑25B aircraft are expected in 2027‑2028.

President Donald Trump unveiled the aircraft at Joint Base Andrews, describing it as a “flying White House” and noting its increased size, range and advanced secure‑communications suite, including Starlink. He thanked the Emir of Qatar for the donation and announced that the Bridge will lead a major fly‑over during the July 4, 2026, celebrations.

The aircraft includes reinforced defensive systems, encrypted communications, and a luxury interior with custom wood paneling and leather seating. Congressional members have raised questions about foreign‑gift compliance, but the Air Force has accepted the plane as an unconditional donation valued at roughly $400 million.