What is Force One’ train?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to take a 20-hour overnight train journey on 23 August to reach from Poland to Ukraine in his official visit.

PM Modi’s choice of taking the special train — Train Force One — to reach the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, is seen as a bold move, especially considering the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

This will be the first visit by any Indian prime minister to Ukraine in more than 30 years since New Delhi established its diplomatic relations with the second-largest European country after Russia.

Why train — Train Force One?

The ‘Train Force One’ is considered one of the most luxurious trains in the world. But, this is not the main reason for PM Modi taking the train route.

According to details, all the airports in Ukraine are closed due to the Russia-Ukraine war, and the train route is considered a safe option.

Others who took this train?

Before PM Modi, US President Joe Biden travelled to Ukraine by this special train, reported News18. Also, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi in 2022 travelled to Ukraine by this train.

Train Force One: Features

Built in 2014 for tourists in Crimea, the Train Force One appears like a high-end hotel on wheels. It is equipped with a large table for important meetings, a plush sofa and a wall-mounted TV.

On safety aspects too, the trains is equipped to protect its VIP passengers. It has armored windows, secured communication systems and built to handle the most challenging scenarios. Adding on surveillance systems, a secure communication network and a dedicated team of security personnel is present on this train.

History of Rail Force One:

Rail Force One” is an informal nickname often used to refer to the special trains used by the President of the United States or other high-ranking officials for transportation. The term is a play on “Air Force One,” which is the official aircraft designation for any airplane carrying the U.S. President. Similarly, “Rail Force One” is used to describe a train that has been outfitted for the President’s travel, though it is not an official designation.

Key Features and Use:

• Historical Context:

  The concept of a special train for the President of the United States dates back to the 19th century when rail travel was a primary mode of long-distance transportation. Presidents like Abraham Lincoln and Franklin D. Roosevelt famously used trains for official travel and campaign tours.The use of a presidential train has significantly diminished with the advent of air travel, but the tradition persists in some instances, particularly for campaign tours or symbolic journeys.

Security and Customization:

• Trains used by the President are heavily secured and specially outfitted for comfort, communication, and security. This includes secure communication systems, bulletproof windows, and other safety features.The train may include several cars, such as a private sleeping car, dining car, and cars for staff, Secret Service agents, and other necessary personnel.
• Notable Uses:
  • Whistle-Stop Tours: Presidents and presidential candidates have historically used trains for “whistle-stop” campaign tours, where the train would stop at various towns and cities, allowing the candidate to address the public from the rear platform. Harry Truman’s famous 1948 campaign tour is a notable example.
  • Joe Biden’s Campaign: In 2020, then-presidential candidate Joe Biden used a train for a “Build Back Better Express” tour, which was informally dubbed “Rail Force One” by the media and supporters.
• Symbolism:
  • The use of a train by a U.S. President or candidate often carries symbolic weight, representing a connection to everyday Americans and a throwback to the historical roots of American political campaigning.
  • It is also seen as a way to emphasize infrastructure and transportation issues, which are often significant topics in U.S. politics.