Sparkly Gulfstream G700s to Replace a 20-Year-Old G550 in the US Coast Guard

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is facing criticism for deciding that now, weeks into a government shutdown, was a great time to spend $172 million on two sparkly new Gulfstream G700 business jets. The purchase was intended to replace an aging G550 that officials said had long surpassed its operational life.

According to DHS, the new jets are essential for its Long Range Command and Control fleet. The department noted that the G550, designated CG-101, is over 20 years old and beyond recommended usage for a corporate aircraft. DHS insisted that the replacement was necessary to maintain readiness and safety standards.

Not everyone was convinced. Representatives Rosa DeLauro and Lauren Underwood issued a pointed letter to Secretary Kristi Noem, stating: “Your first priority should be to organize, train and equip a Coast Guard that is strong enough to meet today's mission requirements. Instead, it appears your first priority is your own comfort.”

Representative Bennie Thompson, ranking Democrat on the Homeland Security Committee, added that the spending was “blatantly immoral—and probably illegal.” He reminded the department that Congress had already denied a $50 million request for a similar aircraft earlier in the year, and that many Coast Guard units are still flying aircraft from the 1980s without an upgrade in sight.

Despite the backlash, DHS appears determined to push forward, even if the image of brand-new G700s rolling off the line during a shutdown makes it an easy target for critics who see the move as out of touch.

FMI: www.dhs.gov