Rolls Royce has secured a significant contract to supply technology for the new generation of the US Air Force’s nuclear-blast resistant aircraft. Known as the ‘doomsday plane’, this aircraft is designed to withstand electromagnetic pulses and nuclear blasts. This contract is part of the Survivable Airborne Operations Centre (SAOC) project, led by Sierra Nevada Corporation and involving several aerospace companies.
Next-Generation E-4B Aircraft
The new aircraft will be an upgraded version of the current E-4B planes, which serve as mobile command centers during national emergencies. Equipped to house operations areas, conference rooms, and more, these planes can seamlessly take over from destroyed ground facilities. They can also be refueled in the air, enhancing their capability to support critical operations without interruption.
Critical Role in National Emergencies
The E-4B aircraft can accommodate around 111 people and are designed to transport key government officials, including the US President, military chiefs, and the Secretary of Defense, in times of crisis. The onboard mobile command center ensures communication with any US military base worldwide, maintaining operational command and control even under extreme conditions.
Continuous Readiness and Global Standby
Currently, four of these crucial aircraft are operational, with at least one always on standby at a US military base. The SAOC project, expected to be completed by 2036, involves extensive work across multiple sites in Ohio, Colorado, and Nevada. This initiative aims to replace the aging fleet of E-4B planes, which are increasingly difficult to maintain due to scarce parts.
Rolls Royce and Sierra Nevada’s Commitment
Rolls Royce’s senior executive Adam Riddle emphasized the company’s long-standing role in supporting military operations globally with advanced technologies. Jon Piatt from Sierra Nevada Corporation expressed confidence in Rolls Royce’s contribution to the project, highlighting the importance of maintaining a strategic edge in national security. Additionally, Rolls Royce is advancing its technology through a recent project involving mini nuclear reactor testing in Sheffield, in collaboration with Sheffield University.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Telegraph
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