Air Force purchases bankrupt Russian firm’s planes for Air Force One

The Air Force purchased two commercial Boeing 747 jetliners that were abandoned by a bankrupt Russian airline for use replacing aging presidential support aircraft, according to a Friday announcement.

The expected deal comes after Air Force officials said they were getting a “good deal” for the aircraft from Boeing which on average cost $386.8 million each.

The aircraft were ordered in 2013 by Russian airline Transaero, however the company went bankrupt in 2015, according to Defense One.

{mosads}

The aircraft will start providing presidential airlift support in 2024 after changes and tests are done on the planes, according to a statement from the Air Force. 

Additional modifications to the airplanes will include adding a mission communications system, electrical power upgrades, a medical facility, an executive interior, a self-defense system and autonomous ground operations capabilities, according to the Air Force.

Defense Secretary James Mattis ordered a review of the Air Force One program in January after President Trump criticized costs related to the program. 

The then-president elect criticized Boeing for the cost of a new Air Force One plane in December. 

Boeing is building a brand new 747 Air Force One for future presidents, but costs are out of control, more than $4 billion. Cancel order!

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 6, 2016