Japan receives first of two new Air Force One.

The Japanese Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) took delivery of the first of two new "Air Force One", a modified Boeing 777-300ER jet airliner which will be used by the country's government for VIP transport, the service announced on August 17 on its Facebook page.

Japan's first Boeing 777-300ER dedicated to VIP transport landed at Chitose Airbase on August 17
(Credit; JASDF)

The aircraft will not enter service within the Special Airlift Squadron, at Chitose Airbase, before next fiscal year, the JASDF said. Interior outfitting of the aircraft, including necessary modifications for installing VIP cabin, administrative office and meeting rooms was completed by Jet Aviation in Basel, Switzerland. The second aircraft will be delivered in December. 

Japan launched the acquisition process for two Boeing 777-300ER in 2014 to replace a pair of 747-400s in service since 1991. All Nippon Airways (ANA) will provide maintenance service for the aircraft, the government then announced. 

The Japanese government reportedly favored the 777 instead of the Airbus A350 because due to its capabilities being closer to those of the 747. The 777-300ER ("ER" for Extended Range) features a higher MTOW and increased fuel capacity which permits a maximum range of 13,650 km.