Sierra Nevada to build $13 billion next-gen "doomsday plane" for USAF

According to Reuters, the United States Air Force has awarded Sierra Nevada Corporation a hefty $13 billion contract to develop the next generation of the "doomsday plane," a successor to the venerable E-4B aircraft, known for its nuclear war survivability.

This futuristic aircraft will replace the ageing Boeing E-4, which took to the skies in the 1970s and is expected to retire after 2030. The development of the new plane will kick off under the Survivable Airborne Operations Center (SAOC) project.

Originally crafted as a mobile command centre resilient to nuclear explosions and electromagnetic impacts, the E-4B boasts capabilities that allow American leaders to coordinate military responses to threats. This remarkable aircraft can refuel mid-air and is outfitted with conference spaces, briefing areas, and cutting-edge communication gear, accommodating a crew of up to 112 individuals.

Work on this groundbreaking design is anticipated to continue until 2036, with operations spanning Colorado, Nevada, and Ohio. A notable update from Reuters in December last year highlighted the Air Force's decision to sideline Boeing from the race to create the E-4B Nightwatch's heir.