VC-25B

The VC-25B Program, formerly known as the Presidential Aircraft Recapitalization (PAR) Program, is a major Air Force initiative focused on replacing the aging VC-25A fleet, which serves as Air Force One. The primary goal of this program is to deliver two new, highly modified Boeing 747-8 aircraft that meet the unique requirements for presidential airlift. This ensures the President, staff, and guests have secure, reliable, and technologically advanced air transportation. The program addresses critical capability gaps, rising maintenance costs, and parts obsolescence associated with the current fleet, which is over 30 years old.

The Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD), Product Support, and Program Support Costs (PSC) line item is central to the VC-25B Program. Its objectives include the design, integration, and modification of the two Boeing 747-8 aircraft to meet stringent presidential mission requirements. This involves upgrading electrical power systems, installing dual Auxiliary Power Units, implementing advanced mission communication systems, and integrating military avionics and self-defense systems. The EMD phase also covers the development of an executive interior, secure work and rest environments, and independent enplaning and baggage loading capabilities. These modifications are essential to ensure the aircraft can function as a mobile command center with White House-level communications and security.

The program also includes a dedicated Government Test line item, which supports the planning, oversight, and execution of developmental test and evaluation (DT&E) activities. This encompasses system integration laboratory (SIL) work, ground testing, and flight testing in collaboration with Air Force and contractor test organizations. The goal is to validate that all modifications and systems perform as required under operational conditions, ensuring the aircraft are fully mission-ready before entering service.

Another key objective of the VC-25B Program is to provide comprehensive Product Support for the new aircraft. This includes planning and implementing heavy maintenance, compliance with airworthiness directives, provisioning of initial spares and support equipment, and the development of technical order publications. These activities are designed to ensure the long-term sustainability and operational readiness of the VC-25B fleet throughout its lifecycle.

The Program Support Costs line item covers both civilian pay expenses and contract services necessary for program management and execution. Civilian pay supports the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) teams responsible for overseeing the program, while contract services provide specialized expertise in areas such as engineering, logistics, and systems integration. This ensures that the program has the necessary human resources and technical support to meet its objectives on schedule and within budget.

The acquisition strategy for the VC-25B Program is built around a sole-source, firm-fixed-price contract with Boeing, the designated prime integrator. This approach was chosen to manage risk, control costs, and leverage Boeing's expertise with the 747-8 platform. The program has experienced schedule delays, leading to revised delivery timelines and updated Acquisition Program Baselines (APB). The Air Force continues to work closely with Boeing to accelerate the schedule where possible, as reflected in recent budget increases aimed at supporting these acceleration initiatives.