The U.S. Air Force’s fleet of four E4-B jets  plays a vital and little known role in the defense of the nation as an airborne command post.  And when one of the four aircraft is out for routine maintenance, it’s essential to return to service sooner rather than later.  

Boeing’s maintenance and repair facility in San Antonio, Texas, met that challenge, delivering the first E4-B it worked on to the USAF earlier than expected, enabling the USAF to return the critical aircraft to operational service right away. Maintenance on the Air Force C-17 Globemaster III and KC-135 aerial refueling tankers, as well as commercial aircraft, also occurs at the San Antonio location.  

Based on the Boeing 747-200 commercial airplane, the E-4B’s primary role during a conflict is as an airborne command post under the direction of the President, Secretary of Defense, and the Joint Chiefs of Staff.  

Boeing built the E-4 fleet and, with the Air Force, has supported the aircraft since the program’s launch in 1974. The company is on contract to maintain the readiness of the aircraft’s systems, bringing each aircraft in for service every four years.