These aircraft are the most expensive in the Air Force, costing the military $159,529 per hour to operate.
Top military commanders and important decision-makers, such as the president, who would direct operations in the event of a nuclear war or other catastrophic calamity, are intended to be transported and protected by them.
One of these aircraft is always on high alert and maintained in a condition of readiness, with its engines operating around the clock to guarantee that it can take off at any time.
The passengers are shielded from the consequences of a nuclear explosion by the aircraft’s sophisticated thermal and nuclear shielding.
Because of its mid-air refueling capabilities, these aircraft can stay in the air for up to a week without landing. In order to combat missile threats, they are also outfitted with a variety of defensive systems.
