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Washington D.C. – A striking new color scheme is being applied to the U.S. Air Force’s VIP fleet, including what will eventually be the next Air Force One, at the direction of former President Donald Trump. The updated design features a prominent use of red, white, blue and gold, a departure from the traditional Air Force One livery.

The change, first reported by CBS News, has been in development for some time and reflects Trump’s personal preferences. While the iconic “Air Force One” branding will remain, the overall aesthetic is undergoing a significant transformation. The move has sparked discussion about the use of presidential branding on official government aircraft, and the costs associated with the repainting process.

The first aircraft to receive the new paint job was a C-32A, often referred to as “Air Force Two,” which has already been spotted with the updated colors. This serves as a preview of the glance that will eventually be applied to the larger Boeing 747-8 that will become the next official Air Force One. The repainting is not simply cosmetic; it represents a deliberate aesthetic choice by the former president, and is now being implemented by the Air Force.

New Color Palette Details

The new color scheme incorporates a bold red, a bright white, a deep blue, and accents of gold. Sources indicate that Trump specifically requested these colors, aiming for a more regal and visually impactful appearance. Reuters reported that the new scheme includes all four colors – red, white, blue, and gold – in its design. The specifics of how these colors are distributed across the aircraft’s exterior are still emerging as the repainting process continues.

The War Zone published images of the C-32A “Air Force Two” jet after it emerged with the new paint job, providing a first look at the updated design. The images show a dramatic shift from the standard Air Force livery, with the new colors prominently displayed on the fuselage and tail.

Cost and Timeline

Details regarding the total cost of repainting the entire VIP fleet, including the Boeing 747-8, have not been publicly released. However, repainting large aircraft is a significant undertaking, involving considerable labor and materials. The process is expected to take a considerable amount of time, with the full transition to the new livery likely spanning several months or even years.

The decision to proceed with the repainting despite potential costs has drawn some scrutiny. Critics question whether the aesthetic changes are a justifiable use of taxpayer funds, while supporters argue that the updated look reflects a renewed sense of national pride. The USA Today reported on the new color scheme for Trump’s Air Force One, highlighting the aesthetic changes.

Impact and Future Considerations

The new paint scheme for Air Force One and the VIP fleet represents a notable shift in the visual identity of the U.S. Presidency. The use of bold colors and gold accents is intended to project an image of strength and prestige. The BBC reported that Air Force One is set for a makeover paint job with new colors.

As the repainting process continues, further details about the design and associated costs are expected to emerge. The long-term impact of this aesthetic change on the perception of the presidency remains to be seen. The completion of the Boeing 747-8’s repainting will mark a significant milestone in this ongoing project, and will provide a clearer picture of the final result.

The implementation of this new color scheme underscores the importance of visual branding in modern politics and the enduring fascination with the aircraft that serves as a symbol of American power and leadership. What comes next will be observing public reaction to the completed transformation of Air Force One and assessing any potential impact on the aircraft’s symbolic role.

What are your thoughts on the new Air Force One color scheme? Share your opinions in the comments below.

A new podcast episode from the Middle East Report in-house publication, MERIP, features a discussion of how migration from sub-Saharan Africa has reshaped Moroccan literature and, by extension, Moroccan identity over the last three decades. The episode, released February 13, 2026, centers on the essay “The Sub-Saharan Turn in Moroccan Literature” by Brahim El Guabli, which originally appeared in the Spring 2021 issue of Middle East Report.

The podcast, hosted by MERIP Executive Director James Ryan, explores El Guabli’s analysis of recent Moroccan novels and their engagement with the increasing presence of sub-Saharan African migrants. The conversation likewise delves into the development of El Guabli’s concept of “saharanism,” a framework further elaborated in his newly published book, Desert Imaginations: A History of Saharanism and Its Radical Consequences, released by the University of California Press in November 2025.

El Guabli is an associate professor of comparative thought and literature at Johns Hopkins University, and identifies as Black and Amazigh Indigenous from Morocco. His work focuses on literatures of the Tamazgha region – encompassing North Africa and parts of sub-Saharan Africa – and the broader Middle East. He received an Honorable Mention from the Middle East Librarians Association in 2024 for his scholarship.

Desert Imaginations builds upon the themes explored in his earlier essay, examining the historical construction of the Sahara as a cultural and political space. El Guabli’s previous work includes “Forgettable Black and Amazigh Bodies: Boujemâa Hebaz and the Moroccan Racial Politics of Amnesia,” published in Comparative Studies of South Asia, Africa and the Middle East in 2024, and “The Idea of Tamazgha: Current Articulations and Scholarly Potential” in the inaugural issue of Tamazgha Studies Journal in 2023. His research draws on scholarship including Ghislaine Lydon’s On Trans-Saharan Trails and Shamil Jeppie’s forthcoming Writing Timbuktu.

MERIP is currently accepting submissions for its summer issue, focused on visual art and cultural production in the Middle East and North Africa, with a submission deadline of February 23rd.

The question of whether China will dominate the 21st century is a central theme in global economic and geopolitical analysis. Recent discussions, including a series of reports and analyses, suggest a complex picture, moving beyond simple predictions of inevitable supremacy to a more nuanced assessment of China’s strengths, weaknesses, and the challenges it faces. The ongoing evolution of the Chinese economy, its technological advancements, and its increasing global influence are all key factors in this debate, particularly as it relates to France and Europe.

For years, China’s economic growth has been a defining feature of the global landscape. Although, recent reports indicate a shift in focus, with an emphasis on quality over quantity, and a move towards greater self-reliance. This transition is impacting various sectors, from wine imports – where French wines are reportedly facing difficulties in the Chinese market – to the rapid expansion of Chinese companies globally. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for countries like France, which maintain significant economic ties with China.

China’s Economic Relationship with France

The economic relationship between France and China is multifaceted and evolving. Discussions have highlighted both opportunities and challenges. Whereas French wines have encountered headwinds in the Chinese market, as reported on November 6th, 2026, other sectors are experiencing growth. The globalization of Chinese enterprises is a significant trend, with companies like Miniso gaining popularity, as noted on October 28th, 2026. The increasing adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in China, including applications for tourism, is creating fresh avenues for collaboration and competition. On September 30th, 2026, reports indicated a growing interest in AI-powered solutions for Chinese tourists.

The development of AI within China itself is also a key area of focus. Reports from September 23rd, 2026, detail the integration of AI into daily life, while earlier in the month, on September 16th, 2026, advancements in autonomous drone technology were highlighted. These technological leaps are not occurring in isolation; they are part of a broader strategy to enhance China’s economic competitiveness and global influence.

European Collaboration and Educational Exchange

Beyond bilateral ties, China’s relationship with Europe as a whole is gaining attention. Reports from October 30th, 2026, suggest a growing trend of collaborative educational initiatives between China and Europe. This exchange of ideas and expertise is seen as a potential catalyst for innovation and economic growth on both sides. The platform Superprof, for example, is reportedly expanding its presence in China, indicating a demand for international educational resources, as reported on October 2nd, 2026.

Challenges and Internal Shifts

Despite its impressive growth, China faces internal challenges. The shift towards a more sustainable and high-quality economic model requires significant structural adjustments. The country is also navigating a complex geopolitical landscape, with increasing scrutiny from international partners. The “618” shopping festival and platforms like Luneurs, discussed on June 26th, 2026, demonstrate the continued strength of the Chinese consumer market, but also highlight the importance of domestic demand in driving economic growth. A broader overview of the Chinese economy, as reported on June 24th, 2026, underscores the need for continued reforms and innovation.

The dominance of China in the 21st century is not a foregone conclusion. While the country possesses significant economic and technological advantages, it also faces substantial challenges. The ability to navigate these challenges, adapt to changing global dynamics, and maintain a stable internal environment will be crucial in determining its future trajectory. The relationship between China, France, and the broader European Union will continue to be a key factor in shaping this outcome.

Looking ahead, the focus will be on how China manages its economic transition, addresses its internal challenges, and engages with the international community. The coming years will be critical in determining whether China can solidify its position as a global leader or face setbacks in its pursuit of dominance. Further developments in AI, technological innovation, and international trade will be closely watched.

What are your thoughts on China’s economic future? Share your perspectives in the comments below.