US signs agreement with Qatar for free Boeing Jet. Photo credits: Channel 3000
(The Post News)- The US Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth, and his Qatari counterpart signed an agreement confirming Qatar’s donation of a Boeing jet to the Pentagon. The plane, expected to be used as Air Force One after upgrades, is considered a “bona fide gift” with no payment required from the US. The agreement emphasizes the donation is unconditional and not linked to any government decision.
The jet’s upgrade is estimated to cost less than $400 million, with the Air Force seeking to reallocate funds from the Sentinel program. The program is a land-based intercontinental ballistic missile system being developed to replace the US’ aging Minuteman III missiles. The aircraft is currently parked in San Antonio awaiting upgrades.
The deal has sparked controversy, with some lawmakers questioning its ethics. The Air Force was initially under the impression that any transaction with the Qataris would involve a sale of the plane, not a donation. President Trump repeatedly described the plane as a “GIFT, FREE OF CHARGE.” The memorandum signed by Hegseth and his Qatari counterpart emphasizes the transfer of the plane is “unconditional” and that it is “not connected or otherwise related to any governmental decision.”
The upgrade process is expected to be complex, involving significant modifications to meet presidential security requirements. According to the agreement, the Air Force “is in the process of finalizing the transfer of registration and will immediately begin execution of the required modifications.” The exact cost of retrofitting the Qatari plane for presidential use is classified, but Air Force Secretary Troy Meink told lawmakers it will “probably” cost less than $400 million.
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