The operation unfolded during Trump's NATO summit visit to Ankara last month. Officials feared a shoulder-fired missile could target the presidential aircraft.

The Secret Service judged the threat credible and imminent, according to a person briefed on the operation. Officials then made last-minute plans to conceal Trump's movements.

Secret Aircraft Switch

Trump and several aides secretly left Turkey aboard a smaller C-32A government jet on July 8. They used a catering truck to reach the aircraft without attracting attention.

Air Force One departed separately with senior officials, White House staff and 13 journalists. The aircraft effectively served as a decoy during Trump's departure.

Trump later confirmed that the Secret Service ordered the aircraft switch. He flew from Ankara to Britain for refuelling without incident.

A second source said hostile actors had shown intent but lacked a clear attack plan. That assessment allowed both aircraft to proceed with their flights.

Growing Missile Concerns

The threat may have involved a newer heat-seeking missile, aerospace expert Douglas Birkey said. Such weapons can target aircraft engines without emitting detectable radar signals.

Iranian and Russian systems have raised concerns among military planners. The Iranian SA-67 and Russian 9K333 Verba are examples of heat-seeking systems.

The threat emerged as tensions between Washington and Tehran intensified. Turkey borders Iran, adding security concerns during Trump's visit.

US officials also reportedly discovered that Iranian personnel knew Trump's Ankara hotel location. Reports said they knew the exact floor where Trump stayed.

Decoy Air Force One

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent remained aboard Air Force One. White House staff and the traveling press corps also stayed aboard.

White House officials Dan Scavino, Natalie Harp and Walt Nauta accompanied Trump during the aircraft switch. They reportedly used the catering truck to maintain secrecy.

The operation later drew criticism from some lawmakers and media commentators. They questioned whether the decoy aircraft exposed Trump's aides and journalists to additional danger.

The source defended the decision, saying officials prioritized Trump's safety as regional tensions escalated. Turkish officials had not immediately commented on the reported threat._Reuters