The Presidential Beast: An Overview of Obama's Armored Vehicle

Introduction to Presidential Armored Vehicles

One of the more intriguing parts of the White House security protocol revolves around the Presidential Armored Vehicle, commonly known as the "Beast." When many think of this vehicle, they often associate it with President Barack Obama, mistakenly believing he was the first president to officially name or notice one. However, the truth is that it wasn't until recent years that the term "Beast" became popularized in the media and among the public.

George W. Bush and the "Beast"

Contrary to popular belief, the first Presidential Armored Vehicle to be known by the term "Beast" was not Barack Obama's, but rather that of his predecessor, President George W. Bush's. In 2007, after undergoing a major design change, the threat level and security measures surrounding the vehicle increased significantly. The most noticeable change was the increased armor for blast and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The doors of the new model were significantly thicker, some reaching up to 6 inches to 8 inches in thickness.

Barack Obama and the Beast

When Obama first became president, he inherited the vehicle that had been serving the previous administration. However, media attention and public interest in the "Beast" truly began to heat up during Obama's tenure. The President himself would often make fun of the vehicle, referring to it by its unofficial name. He would frequently joke that it was indeed the "Beast," much to the amusement of the public and the media.

Does Obama Deserve the Credit for the "Beast"?

While Obama didn't name the vehicle "Beast," his frequent references to and interactions with it likely contributed to the vehicle's growing popularity and the term's widespread use. The media coverage during his presidency highlighted the vehicle in a way that made it a household name. His playful demeanor and frequent mentions of the "Beast" did help in shaping its perception in the public eye.

Design Changes and Security Improvements

The massive design changes that led to the term "Beast" being used were primarily driven by increased security concerns following the September 11 attacks and heightened threats in Iraq and Afghanistan. The changes included not only the door thickness but also improvements in material and overall vehicle structure to better withstand low- and high-explosive attacks.

Conclusion: The Legacy of the "Beast"

Despite not being the first to use or name the Presidential Armored Vehicle as such, President Obama's relationship with the "Beast" played a significant role in its growing prominence. The term has become part of political and pop culture, making the President a key figure in its story. From references to its size and speed to its armored nature, the "Beast" has become a symbol of presidential security and the complexity of modern security protocols.