The U.S. Department of Defense has taken possession of a Boeing 747-8 aircraft provided by the Qatari government to U.S. President Donald Trump, despite controversy over what is being described as an 'inappropriate gift.' The aircraft is expected to be used as the presidential plane in the future.
Spokesperson Shawn Parnell noted in a statement on the 21st (local time) that 'the Minister of National Defense has received the Boeing 747 aircraft from Qatar in accordance with all federal rules and regulations.' He added that 'the Department of Defense will strive to meet the security measures and mission capabilities necessary for the U.S. President's flights.'
The U.S. Air Force plans to undertake separate modification work to use the acquired aircraft as the presidential plane.
The problematic aircraft is believed to have been received from the Qatari royal family during President Trump's recent Middle East tour, with an estimated value of around $400 million (approximately 550 billion won). President Trump claims he received the aircraft without any compensation.
During his first term, President Trump also ordered aircraft from Boeing for a new presidential plane, but since they have not yet been delivered, he has expressed dissatisfaction about having to continue using aging models.
This acquisition has raised concerns about the appropriateness of receiving such a high-value gift from a foreign government. Members of both the Democratic Party and some Republicans have indicated that it would be difficult to accept, considering diplomatic neutrality and national security.
There are also concerns that using the acquired aircraft without modification could lead to serious security issues. It is noted that modifying the aircraft to the necessary level for a presidential plane would require substantial expenses and time.