Air Force One vs Putin Force One: which is more impressive?

Summary

The video compares the iconic Air Force One Boeing 747 and Russian President Putin's Ilyushin IL-96-300PU presidential aircraft. It analyzes their size, speed, range, defensive capabilities, amenities, costs and more. While the American plane is more advanced technologically with better amenities, the Russian jet has a more luxurious interior. The video also discusses controversies around the costs of the new Air Force One 747-8i that is set to replace the current VC-25 aircraft.

Takeaways

• 😲 The Air Force One and Russian presidential plane are iconic aircraft that demonstrate national power and prestige
• 😎 The Air Force One Boeing VC-25 is one of the most recognizable planes ever with a distinctive livery created by Raymond Loewy
• 🔬 The Russian presidential plane is one of 5 customized Ilyushin IL-96-300PU aircraft with the PU standing for “Command Post”
• ✈️ Both the VC-25 and IL-96-300PU travel in pairs for backup and can withstand nuclear blasts due to shielding
• 💪 The VC-25 is bigger and more powerful than the IL-96-300PU with greater range, thrust, weight capacity and amenities
• 🛫 The IL-96-300PU has a slightly larger wingspan but the VC-25 is much longer and can refuel midair to extend range
• 🤑 The VC-25 cost over $650 million per plane compared to a rumored $150-550 million for the IL-96-300PU
• 🍽 The VC-25 can carry 3,000 meals with a full kitchen while the IL-96-300PU only reheats pre-made meals
• 👔 The VC-25 front section is configured like the White House with offices and conference rooms
• 🏋️‍♂️ Both presidential planes have gyms, bedrooms and meeting spaces but the IL-96-300PU interior is more lavish

Q & A

What are some key differences between Air Force One and Russia's presidential aircraft?

Some key differences are that Air Force One is based on a Boeing 747 while Russia's aircraft is based on the Ilyushin Il-96. Air Force One is longer, heavier and has more powerful engines and likely greater range. Russia's plane appears more lavishly decorated while Air Force One aims for more functional businesslike interiors.

How many presidential aircraft does each country operate?

The US operates two VC-25A Air Force One aircraft at any given time that fly in pairs. Russia is believed to ready five Il-96-300PU aircraft for each of Putin's trips, with Putin selecting one to fly on at random.

What special capabilities do the presidential planes have?

Both aircraft feature extensive shielding, defenses against nuclear blasts, electronic countermeasures, flare dispensers, and robust communications to serve as airborne command centers. Their exact capabilities are classified.

What amenities are present on each plane?

Putin's plane contains a bedroom, gym, conference room and more passenger space. Air Force One has more office and meeting rooms and supports a staff of dozens. Air Force One can carry substantially more food.

How much did each aircraft cost?

The VC-25A Air Force Ones cost over $325 million each in the 1980s, over $1 billion today. Estimates for Putin's newer plane range from $70-550 million.

How do the liveries and iconography compare?

The Air Force One livery is iconic and has changed little over decades. Russia's aircraft livery has changed as the fleet moved from a commercial to government entity and is less recognizable.

Why does the US have only two primary presidential aircraft?

The US operates only the two VC-25As due to their tremendously high cost of acquisition and operation. Adding more aircraft was likely seen as prohibitively expensive.

What new presidential aircraft developments are upcoming?

The US has contracted for two new VC-25B Air Force Ones based on 747-8s that were meant to enter service in 2024 after cost overruns. Little is publicly known about future Russian plans.

What major technical issues have the aircraft faced?

The Russian aircraft has reportedly suffered from mechanical failures, brake failures and aborted takeoffs, pushing Putin at times to fly on backup aircraft. The VC-25A has maintained high readiness rates.

How regularly do the presidents fly on these aircraft vs. other planes?

The VC-25A is used exclusively for the US President, who flies on it domestically and overseas routinely. Putin flies both on the Il-96-300PU and other aircraft depending on the trip.