On June 17, 2025, Americans took notice when the U.S. military’s “Doomsday plane”—a Boeing E-4B Nightwatch—was spotted on a rare and high-profile flight. The unusual activity comes as tensions escalate between Israel and Iran following a missile exchange, raising fresh fears about the possibility of a wider conflict.

While the U.S. and U.K. have yet to enter the fray directly, speculation continues to grow. Former President Donald Trump weighed in, calling Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei an “easy target” and warning that America’s patience is “wearing thin.” He also hinted that Israeli strikes may continue unless a new nuclear deal is reached.

The E-4B, often dubbed the “Doomsday plane,” serves as the National Airborne Operations Center. It’s designed to function as a mobile command center in the event of nuclear war or a national emergency. Capable of flying for 12 hours and refueling mid-air, it’s essentially a “flying Pentagon.”

On the evening of June 17, the aircraft took off from Barksdale Air Force Base in Bossier City, Louisiana, at 5:56 p.m. ET and landed at Joint Base Andrews near Washington, D.C., just after 10 p.m. What drew extra attention was its rare callsign, ORDER01—typically reserved for high-alert missions. Normally, it flies under the callsign ORDER6.

The E-4B has made appearances during past national crises, including the 9/11 attacks and major hurricanes, serving both military and civilian command functions. Its presence this week is fueling concern that U.S. leaders may be preparing for a serious escalation in global tensions.