Trump’s July 4 event to feature flyover by next-generation ‘Marine One’ helicopter: report

President Trump’s July Fourth celebration in Washington, D.C., will reportedly feature the first official use of a new “Marine One” helicopter purchased by the Defense Department.

McClatchy reported Tuesday that the new model, dubbed the VH-92, will fly over the capital city in the evening as part of an Independence Day celebration that will also involve several tanks.

{mosads}The Navy told Popular Mechanics last month that the new design makes the helicopter one of the most technologically advanced aircraft.

Thursday will not be the first time the helicopter has flown above D.C. It has reportedly embarked on several test flights around the District over the past few months, but the July Fourth celebration will mark the aircraft’s first official use.

The Navy has commissioned Sikorsky, the helicopter’s manufacturer, to build six more aircraft due to enter service next year at a cost of $542 million.

Trump is expected to give a speech Thursday from the Lincoln Memorial, and the event on the National Mall will include a flyover by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.

Several Democrats and local city officials have raised concerns that Trump will politicize the holiday with his speech and with the prominence of the military at the event.