Boeing Delivers First E-4B

In December 1979, Boeing delivered the first E-4B Advanced Airborne Command Post to the U.S. Air Force. The E-4B evolved from the earlier E-4A, of which three were built. By 1985, all A models had been upgraded to B models. Based on the 747-200B, the E-4B provides a highly survivable command, control and communications center in case of national emergency, with “nuclear hardening” to withstand the effects of an electromagnetic pulse from a nuclear blast. All E-4Bs are assigned to the 595th Command and Control Group at Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., with at least one on alert at all times.