The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has inked a nearly $140 million contract to procure six Boeing 737 aircraft specifically for deportation operations.
As reported by The Washington Post, this acquisition is part of a budget increase approved by Congress aimed at strengthening immigration law enforcement and expanding the capacity to transport individuals undergoing repatriation.
This agreement grants the DHS its own fleet for deportation flights, a task previously reliant on external contracts.
According to the report, the investment is intended to streamline resources and address the surge in repatriation operations carried out by the federal government.
The news outlet highlighted that this decision follows the recent expansion of the migration control budget, with the DHS considering the creation of the fleet a crucial step in enhancing the logistics of deportation flights.
In recent weeks, U.S. immigration policy has taken a more assertive turn.
During a campaign event in North Carolina, Donald Trump reiterated his commitment to "get the bad people out" of the country, specifically targeting immigrants with criminal records and accusing the current administration of being weak on illegal immigration. The former president vowed to ramp up mass deportations if he wins the 2026 election.
Recently, the Department of Homeland Security issued a direct warning to undocumented foreigners: they will face immediate deportation if they do not voluntarily surrender through the CBP Home app.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was unequivocal, stating that those remaining illegally will face arrest and forced removal under a national incentivized self-deportation plan.
Simultaneously, a federal judge has reopened an investigation into officials from Trump's circle over alleged irregularities in deportation contracts during his first administration.
The probe includes potential conflicts of interest and favoritism towards companies linked to former White House advisors in the awarding of repatriation flight contracts.
Understanding the New U.S. Deportation Fleet Initiative
What is the purpose of the new Boeing 737 fleet acquired by the DHS?
The fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft is intended to enhance the Department of Homeland Security's ability to conduct deportation operations more efficiently, allowing for greater control and capacity in repatriating individuals.
How does this acquisition align with current U.S. immigration policies?
This acquisition aligns with the recent shift towards a more aggressive immigration policy, emphasizing enhanced enforcement and expedited deportation processes.
Why is the DHS moving towards having its own fleet instead of relying on external contracts?
By having its own fleet, the DHS aims to optimize resources, improve logistical efficiency, and gain better control over deportation operations, reducing reliance on third-party contractors.