The aircraft, a modified Boeing 747, is a flying control centre in the event of nuclear war or major crisis. The aircraft is supporting the U.S. President as he visits Brussels today.

The E-4B ‘Nightwatch’ is equipped with everything US officials would need to continue running the country, potentially from the skies, amidst a catastrophic world event. A fleet of four E-4Bs makes up the National Airborne Operations Center.

One of them is on alert 24/7 and always follows the President on overseas visits, that’s what’s happening today.

The aircraft has three decks and can hold a crew of up to 112 people.

“Designed during the Cold War, the Nightwatch has three decks. It can hold a crew of 112 people and can fly for 12 hours without landing, – while aerial refuelling means it can stay in the air for days. Its windows are reported to have wire mesh to keep them intact, while equipment and wiring on board are hardened and there is thermal and nuclear shielding in the event of a blast.”

The front of the plane contains living quarters for senior military officials, where 18 bunks are available for Air Force crew, Business Insider reports.

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George has a degree in Cyber Security from Glasgow Caledonian University and has a keen interest in naval and cyber security matters and has appeared on national radio and television to discuss current events. George is on Twitter at @geoallison
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David
David
2 years ago

I thought the wire mesh in the windows was more aimed at protecting the huge amount of electronic gear aboard against the effects of an EMP…..

David Flandry
David Flandry
2 years ago
Reply to  David

Probably so. These articles are often not worded so well.

Esteban
Esteban
2 years ago
Reply to  David

You are correct.

Andy reeves
Andy reeves
2 years ago
Reply to  Esteban

Never have been

Sean the real Sean
Sean the real Sean
2 years ago
Reply to  David

Yeah , we have Tempesting where i am which involves Mesh on the glass windows but that is more about stopping leaking radiation then protecting a EMF flash . Also not even sure if it is relevant anymore as we dont use Cathode Ray tubes anymore .

Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
2 years ago

There used to be wire mesh in the windows at my youth club. Not sure it was for emp protection. 😂😂😂😂
Angry Ned protection only

Last edited 2 years ago by Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
Monkey spanker
2 years ago

Could u imagine being stuck on a plane with Boris for days

James
James
2 years ago
Reply to  Monkey spanker

It would need a well stocked bar!

Frank62
Frank62
2 years ago

Is that a laser on top of the hump?

Lane
Lane
2 years ago
Reply to  Frank62

I believe that’s the port for mid air refueling.

AV
AV
2 years ago
Reply to  Frank62

A sat-link I seem to remember.

mac
mac
2 years ago

Or do they know something the aren’t prepared to tell us ?