U.S. security vehicles spotted in Beijing [Weibo capture]

Ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to Beijing next week, the U.S. presidential armored limousine and convoy equipment are being spotted one after another in the Chinese capital.

On May 7, Hong Kong's South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that black limousines and sport utility vehicles (SUVs) with U.S. license plates have been successively spotted on highways in Beijing, suggesting that "a large-scale security reinforcement has begun ahead of the year's most important diplomatic event."

Photos of the presidential armored vehicle, known as 'The Beast,' and the large SUV 'Suburban,' believed to be used for security, have also spread on Chinese social media.

Some Chinese netizens, noting the words "U.S. GOVERNMENT" on the license plates of the vehicles in the published photos, expressed interest, with some commenting, "Are foreign vehicles allowed to operate on Beijing roads?"

These vehicles appear to have been transported to Beijing Capital International Airport recently via a U.S. Air Force C-17 heavy-lift transport aircraft.

Earlier this month, several C-17s were seen landing at the airport, and at the time, major foreign media reported that the transport planes were carrying armored vehicles, Secret Service communication equipment, and advance security personnel.

'The Beast,' which President Trump is expected to ride in, is a custom Cadillac model produced by General Motors (GM). It is described as a "mobile fortress" with a weight of approximately 6,800 to 9,100 kg and a thick armored structure.

The vehicle's body is made of steel, aluminum, ceramic, and titanium, designed to withstand bullets and explosive attacks. It is also equipped with bulletproof glass, an independent oxygen supply system, and a night vision driving system.

The interior is equipped with advanced communication facilities, including satellite and secure phone networks, earning it the nickname "the White House on wheels."

A U.S. presidential motorcade typically consists of 30 to 50 vehicles, including a backup limousine, reconnaissance vehicles, electronic warfare countermeasure vehicles, armed response team vehicles, and an ambulance. Some vehicles are equipped with jammers to block remote explosive attacks.

In addition, Marine One or Black Hawk-series helicopters, which support the president's movement, are also expected to have been deployed in advance.

Chinese President Xi Jinping also uses an armored limousine of China's premium car brand Hongqi for external events. Specific model details have not been disclosed, but it is known to be an armored vehicle approximately 5.5 meters long, equipped with encrypted communication devices.

President Trump is scheduled to visit Beijing for two days starting November 14. It has been reported that he will not travel outside of Beijing during his visit, considering his schedule and security concerns.

SCMP previously reported that both sides agreed to limit the visit to Beijing due to security and logistical burdens.