The US Secret Service Debuts ‘Golf Force One’ for Enhanced Presidential Security
President Donald Trump’s security measures have reached new levels with the introduction of a heavily armored vehicle dubbed ‘Golf Force One’ by the press. The vehicle, a modified Polaris Ranger, was first spotted accompanying Trump at his Turnberry course in Scotland, following a series of heightened security protocols since an assassination attempt in 2024. The Secret Service has not disclosed specific operational details, citing the need for discretion in its protective operations.
The armored vehicle features military-style modifications, including bulletproof windows and reinforced rear sections, which provide a level of protection previously uncommon for golf events. Security analysts note that the lightweight frame allows for mobility across the expansive grassy terrain of golf courses while maintaining a significant level of defensive capability. The vehicle’s design allows for rapid response in case of an emergency, making it an effective tool for securing high-profile individuals in remote or vulnerable locations.
The introduction of ‘Golf Force One’ comes amid heightened security concerns following the 2024 assassination attempt at Trump’s Pennsylvania rally, where a gunman fired at the former president. Another plot was thwarted at his West Palm Beach golf course in September 2024 when Secret Service agents discovered a suspect armed with a rifle. The pro-Ukraine activist, Ryan Wesley Routh, is set to face trial in September after being arrested during the incident.
Public procurement data reveals that the armored package for the vehicle, sourced from companies like Chicago-based Scaletta Armoring, carries a unit price of nearly $190,000, far exceeding the base price of a standard Ranger, which retails for around $20,000. This significant investment underscores the growing costs of maintaining high-level security for high-profile public figures, particularly amid increased threats from external sources.
While the Secret Service has not commented on the specific modifications to the vehicle, the high cost reflects the extent of the security measures implemented to protect Trump in the wake of multiple attempted assassinations. The organization’s commitment to employing ‘a variety of tools and resources’ to safeguard its protectees highlights the evolving nature of presidential protection in an era of rising security challenges.