WASHINGTON: A credible and imminent missile threat prompted the US Secret Service to secretly transfer President Donald Trump from Air Force One to a smaller government aircraft during his visit to Turkiye for the NATO summit last month, according to sources familiar with the operation.
The security move was carried out on the final day of Trump’s visit to Ankara after intelligence indicated Air Force One could be targeted by a shoulder-fired missile. Trump departed Turkiye aboard a C-32A aircraft, while Air Force One left separately carrying senior US officials, White House staff and members of the travelling press.
Why was President Trump moved from Air Force One?
According to sources, the Secret Service assessed the threat as credible and imminent, leaving officials with little time to prepare. Trump and a small group of aides reportedly used a catering truck to discreetly move from Air Force One to the smaller aircraft before departing Ankara on July 8.
A second source said the intelligence indicated hostile intent rather than a confirmed operational attack plan, allowing both aircraft to continue their flights without incident.
What security concerns emerged during Trump’s Turkiye visit?
The reported threat came amid heightened regional tensions involving Iran. Security experts said modern shoulder-fired, heat-seeking missiles pose increasing risks to aircraft because they are difficult to detect and can target aircraft engines.
The operation remained undisclosed until reports emerged weeks later, raising questions over presidential security measures and the decision to allow Air Force One—carrying senior administration officials and journalists—to depart separately as part of the deception.