Modified Boeing 747 'doomsday' plane on standby features a strange hump that actually has a critical role

This Boeing 747 ‘Doomsday’ plane features a strange hump with a critical role.

The ‘Jumbo Jet’ is one of the most famous and iconic sights to ever grace the skies.

Boeing’s 747 is a vital piece of infrastructure for the United States’ leadership.

Its hump helps the hierarchy of the government function during the worst scenarios imaginable.

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Boeing 747 serves as the ‘Doomsday’ aircraft

This Boeing 747 ‘Doomsday’ aircraft is unlike any other you will find, and that is because this particular flying fortress is reserved for the end of days.

Once a Boeing 747-200, it’s now been converted.

Meet the Boeing E-4B Nightwatch – the plane reserved for the worst scenario imaginable.

The aircraft is a critical component of the National Military Command System – a command hierarchy including the President and the Secretary of Defense.

The converted Boeing 747 acts as a National Airborne Operations Center and is called upon in times of national emergencies.

Usually, this refers to a situation in which the United States would be under nuclear attack.

It can also be used in other situations, such as in the event of a natural disaster hitting the United States.

So, what is the reasoning for the massive hump found on this Boeing 747?

Hump found on aircraft serves important purpose

The massive hump serves as a communications hub.

The hump ensures that the hierarchy of the US government can maintain communications with the wider world in the event of a nuclear attack.

One of its most important features is something called the Milstar system.

It has since been supplemented with the more capable Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) program.

These satellites are part of the United States Space Force, with the Milstar system designed to be a communications system free from reliance on ground-based relay systems.

Keeping in touch with this highly advanced and secure communication system is the main reason for the extra hump on the Boeing E-4B Nightwatch plane. 

Despite all of the technology and communications systems, the Doomsday Boeing 747 is an ageing aircraft.

Much like Air Force One, plans for a new Doomsday plane are very much in the works.

To ensure the safety of the United States, a Doomsday aircraft is always on standby.

Once airborne, the plane can fly for 12 hours without refueling, but it also has mid-air refueling capabilities to keep it flying for longer if required.

There are four Boeing 747 ‘Doomsday’ aircraft in total, and it is normal for three of them to be available at any time.

All of the Boeing 747 Doomsday aircraft are based in Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, which is also home to the US Strategic Air Command.