You’ve probably heard of Air Force One. But have you heard of the “Doomsday” planes? A fleet of specially-designed aircraft follows the president during his flights. If disaster strikes and nuclear war breaks out, the aircraft will be able to coordinate a response from above.
Known officially as National Airborne Operation Centers, the Boeing E-B4s are pretty tricked out. They cost a cool $250 million each to create and an eye-watering $160,000 per hour to operate. They’re loaded with high-tech defense equipment and manned by top military brass. Attacking the president while he’s aboard Air Force One would be nearly impossible, and just the attempt could mean a death sentence.
“The planes also include special gear like a five-mile-long trailing wire antenna that would ensure that the president could remain in contact with the nuclear submarine fleet even after ground-based communications had been destroyed,” the New York Post writes.
One of the super planes runs 24 hours a day at Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, Nebraska. The crew is trained to evacuate the president if the need ever arises. The military doesn’t necessarily expect an attack, but it’s critical that the country is prepared for one.
Take a look at the plane below:
(Source: New York Post)