Core Points - The U.S. Department of Defense has officially accepted a $400 million luxury Boeing 747 jet gifted by Qatar for presidential travel, despite concerns from both parties regarding ethics and security [1] - President Trump intends to use this aircraft as "Air Force One" due to delays in the delivery of two new planes from Boeing [1] - The aircraft will require modifications before it can be used, and the details of the modification contract remain confidential [1] Political Reactions - Democratic leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, have criticized the acceptance of the jet, labeling it the "largest gift from a foreign government to a U.S. president in modern history" and raising national security concerns [2] - Senator Tammy Duckworth expressed worries about operational security risks associated with accepting such gifts from foreign governments [2] - Some Republicans, like Senator Susan Collins, also voiced concerns about the ethical and constitutional implications of the transaction [2] Defense and Justification - President Trump defended the acceptance of the jet, stating it is beneficial for the U.S. Air Force and not a personal gift to him [2][3] - The new Secretary of the Air Force, Troy Meink, confirmed that significant modifications are needed for the aircraft to serve as "Air Force One" but assured that the Air Force has the capability to make those changes [3] - Qatar's Prime Minister defended the gift, asserting that it is a normal occurrence among allies and not an attempt to buy influence [3]