The U.S. Air Force announced a $13 billion contract to purchase a new fleet of command aircraft, replacing its four-plane E-4B fleet which is nearing the end of its operational life.
The Pentagon announced on April 27th that it had awarded Sierra Nevada Corporation a contract worth more than $13 billion to develop, manufacture, and deliver a fleet of Survivable Airborne Command Center (SAOC) aircraft and ground support systems by 2036.
"The squadron will replace the E-4B Nightwatch aircraft, which were built in the 1970s and are nearing the end of their operational lifespan. This is a critical weapons system to national security, helping to ensure our nuclear forces' communications and command capabilities for decades to come," a U.S. Air Force spokesperson said.
US officials have not disclosed the number of SAOC aircraft ordered. However, US media have previously reported the possibility of purchasing 8-10 aircraft to replace the current fleet of 4 E-4Bs.
An E-4B aircraft flies over Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska in 2009. Photo: USAF
Details about the SAOC's configuration have not been released, but the US Air Force says they will be based on a reinforced and modified civilian aircraft design to meet military requirements. Each will be equipped with a highly secure communications system, electromagnetic interference (ESF) resistance, and other features.
The U.S. Air Force currently operates four specially equipped Boeing 747-200 aircraft known as the E-4B Nightwatch, also nicknamed the "doomsday plane." When in flight, they are called the National Airborne Operations Center (NAOC). This is always the best option for the U.S. president to survive a nuclear attack.
Unlike the comforts of Air Force One, the E-4B is a mobile war command center, carrying dozens of military analysts, strategists, and communications assistants to support the U.S. president. It is equipped with many specialized components, such as wire antennas up to 8 km long to maintain communication with nuclear submarine forces, even if ground communication stations are destroyed.
During the final stages of the Cold War, an E-4B Nightwatch aircraft was always on high alert at Andrews Air Force Base, ready to take off with the U.S. president within 15 minutes of an alert.
Today, the U.S. Air Force always deploys E-4B aircraft to fly alongside or near the U.S. president during foreign trips. A Nightwatch is also always on standby at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, with its engines switched on 24/7, ready to take off to pick up the president in an emergency.
Vu Anh (According to War Zone )
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