[Brilliant]

I guess you add 40 tons to the weight by “militarizing” the plane, then. So I wonder what that involves? Perhaps adding fuel capacity? Bigger engines? More protective armor? Electronics? Bomb racks?

[Thermalseeker]

Perhaps adding fuel capacity?

In flight refueling capability is pretty standard on military bombers and Boeing already has that worked out for the 747. Air Force One can be refueled in flight and I'd bet the one they are testing that laser system on has it, too.....

[SIDENET]

I guess you add 40 tons to the weight by “militarizing” the plane, then. So I wonder what that involves? Perhaps adding fuel capacity? Bigger engines? More protective armor? Electronics? Bomb racks?

Self-protection systems, bomb-nav radar, crew stations, weapons systems, radios, EMP hardening, plumbing for aerial refueling, etc.

The list goes on and on.