Boeing C-32B Gatekeeper
Boeing · United States · first flew 1998 · transport aircraft
The Boeing C-32B Gatekeeper is a highly classified special-mission variant of the Boeing 757-200 operated by the United States Air Force for covert government support missions. It differs from the standard C-32A VIP transport in its mission systems and operational security requirements.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, swept |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turbofan, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 47.32 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Highly classified US government special-mission 757 variant
- Modified Boeing 757-200 airframe with classified communications suite
- Operated by 486th Flight Test Squadron for covert support
Externally similar to a standard Boeing 757-200 airliner; distinguishable from the C-32A only by its lack of distinctive USAF markings and reportedly different antenna configurations — it typically flies in airline colour schemes as cover.
Specifications
- The Boeing C-32B Gatekeeper has a length of 47.32 m (155 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 37.99 m (125 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 945 km/h (587 mph).
- Typical crew: Classified/variable.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The C-32B was developed in the late 1990s from the Boeing 757-200 airframe for classified US government roles. Very little official information has been released about its specific mission systems or operational use; it is known to support clandestine government activities.
Variants
The C-32A is the standard VIP/executive transport variant used by the Vice President and senior officials; the C-32B is a separate classified variant with different mission equipment.
Where you'll see it
Operated by the 486th Flight Test Squadron at Eglin AFB in support of classified US government missions; details of its assignments are not publicly disclosed.
Related aircraft
- Boeing 717-200
- Boeing 737-600
- Boeing 757-300
- Boeing C-32A
- Be-200 Altair
- Alenia C-27J Spartan
- Avia Accord-201
- C-27J Spartan
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