- By Shivangi Sharma
- Thu, 19 Jun 2025 09:42 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A rare sighting of the US military’s Boeing E-4B "Nightwatch" aircraft, famously dubbed the “doomsday plane”, has sparked fresh concerns about a potential escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran. The plane was seen landing at Joint Base Andrews near Washington, DC, late Tuesday night, raising speculation about America’s military preparedness for a worst-case scenario.
The E-4B Nightwatch is one of four modified Boeing 747-200s operated by the US Air Force. Designed as a survivable airborne command centre, the aircraft is equipped to keep the US president, secretary of defence, and senior military officials connected in case of a nuclear war or other national emergency. Its ability to function amid nuclear explosions, electromagnetic pulses, and cyberattacks has earned it the ominous nickname “doomsday plane.”
According to The New York Post, this specific flight occurred just hours before reports that two Iranian government planes had left the country for Oman, fueling speculation of behind-the-scenes talks or possible evacuations amid rising regional tensions.
Strategic Timing Sparks Speculation
The flight’s timing, paired with increasing threats between Iran and Israel, has led to growing unease. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, recently warned that Israel would “pay” for what he called a “huge mistake” in launching airstrikes that have reportedly killed more than 220 people in Iran. US President Donald Trump has refused to rule out joining Israel in strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, cryptically stating, “I may, I may not. Nobody knows what I’m going to do.”
Adding to the mystery, the E-4B used the callsign ORDER01, deviating from its usual ORDER6, a detail closely watched by military and aviation enthusiasts online.
Features And History of the E-4B
Each E-4B can carry 112 personnel and fly over 7,000 miles without refuelling. Inside, the plane houses a sophisticated three-level layout including command centres, briefing rooms, rest areas, and secure communications systems. It has been used during previous national crises, including the September 11 attacks, when then-President George W Bush was flown aboard one, and during Hurricane Opal in 1995 by FEMA officials.
The US is currently investing USD 13 billion in a new fleet of these airborne command centres, with Sierra Nevada Corporation developing the replacements. While officials have not confirmed the purpose of this week’s flight, its occurrence amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran suggests increased US readiness. For many, the sudden appearance of the doomsday plane signals more than precaution; it hints at the possibility of larger moves behind the scenes.