Obama's 'Beast' - a Fortress on Wheels That Can Withstand Bombs and Bullets

New Delhi: The car that US President Barack Obama may forego for a ride with President Pranab Mukherjee on Republic Day is a fortress on wheels equipped to protect him from terror attacks and keep him connected to his office at all times. (For President Obama, a Security Camera Every 180 metres in Delhi's Rajpath)

For now, President Obama is expected to follow protocol and arrive with President Mukherjee at Rajpath on the morning of Monday next. If he does, Mr Obama will possibly be the first US President not to travel in his own bullet-proof limousine also called 'The Beast'. (In a First, US President Barack Obama May Not Travel in the 'Beast' for Republic Day Parade)

The Beast can withstand bombs and bullets and is armed with guns and teargas cannons. It is 18 feet long and weighs eight tons.  

The armour plating of the car is eight inches thick. Reports suggest it weighs as much as a Boeing 757.

Its tyres are shred and puncture resistant and it has special foam to prevent the fuel tank from exploding. (10 Facts About President Obama's Republic Day Outing)

Its boot has oxygen tanks and firefighting equipment and it also has night vision camera. The car is driven by a person trained by the Secret Service to make high speed escapes and perform 180-degree turns.

The Beast keeps the President connected to his administration, no matter where he is. It has a satellite phone with a direct line to the Vice President and the Pentagon.

Sources say there is a chance that President Obama may prefer to take his own car to the Republic Day parade, but for now, the plan is that he will follow Indian protocol.