U.S. Air Force Awards $13 Billion Contract For Doomsday Plane Project

The US Air Force (USAF) has taken a significant step towards modernizing its capabilities with the awarding of a $13 billion contract to Sierra Nevada Corp. for the development of a successor to the E-4B, famously known as the Doomsday plane.

As the current E-4B approaches the end of its service life, the USAF is investing in a modernized and hardened airborne command post capable of withstanding nuclear blasts and electromagnetic effects. I Photo: U.S. Air Force

Nathan Gomes reported for Reuters that this project, named the Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC), aims to replace the aging E-4B, which has served as a vital asset for the military.

As the current E-4B approaches the end of its service life, the USAF is investing in a modernized and hardened airborne command post capable of withstanding nuclear blasts and electromagnetic effects.

The SAOC project will involve collaboration across multiple states, with work expected to be completed by 2036.

Designed to meet stringent military requirements, the new weapon system will leverage commercial derivative jets, reinforced to withstand the harshest conditions.

This development underscores the USAF's commitment to maintaining its strategic capabilities and ensuring seamless command and control in the event of a national emergency.