Chris Dodd: “It is very simple amendment. It says that foreign companies involved in developing the President's Marine One helicopter…”

“It is very simple amendment. It says that foreign companies involved in developing the President's Marine One helicopter must pledge in writing that they will not conduct business with state-sponsors of terrorism during the contract and 5 years after it has been completed. Moreover, it provides that those involved in building such technologies will be subject to at least the same export licensing requirements as other defense projects built jointly by the U.S. and foreign manufacturers, as governed by the U.S. Arms Export Control Act. The principle is clear, and hardly controversial. I am sure my colleagues will agree that there are few more sensitive and more important national security concerns than the safe transport of our country's chief executive. But the aircraft we are talking about today is far more than a mode of transportation. It will be outfitted with some of the most advanced technology available to ensure secure communications and easy maneuvering to avoid any possible threats from the ground and air. As long as the President is in flight, this aircraft will be a global nerve center, with critical information constantly flowing in and essential decisions flowing out. This aircraft needs to be safe and secure, and well-equipped to ensure secure communications.”