secret Service Upgrades Polaris Ranger for Presidential Use, Dubbed ‘Golf Force One‘
The vehicle accompanying President Trump on golf courses, known as the “Golf Force One,” has been identified as a heavily modified Polaris Ranger. This utility vehicle has undergone upgrades by the Secret Service, drawing parallels to the extensive modifications made to President Trump’s armored limousine, “The Beast.” The Beast,a Cadillac limousine,boasts features such as bulletproofing,blast resistance,and chemical sealing,contributing to its estimated $1.5 million price tag. This cost, however, is not the highest for armored vehicles considered by the U.S.government, with some costing substantially more.
The Polaris Ranger is available in various configurations. The 2025 Ranger Crew XP 1000 NorthStar Edition,a recent and robust model,has a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail price (MSRP) of $27,999. The “XP” designation is visible on the “Golf Force One.” The version observed with President Trump appears to have three seats, differing from the six-seat option available on some Ranger models.An anonymous source with expertise in armored vehicles suggests that the president’s golf cart is likely based on a model close to the standard version, sharing similar wheels, tires, and front-end design. The total cost of the “Golf Force One” after its extensive modifications remains undisclosed.
Armoring a Golf Cart: Cost and Considerations
The primary expense associated with the “Golf Force One” is its armor. While the specific company and the exact specifications of the armor’s thickness and materials are not publicly known, armoring any vehicle is a significant investment. The cost to fully armor a vehicle can exceed $140,000, depending on the manufacturer, the level of protection required, and customization options. Given the smaller size of the “Golf Force One” compared to an SUV or limousine, the armoring costs might fall within the $45,000 to $50,000 range for comparable coverage.However, reports indicate that the entire vehicle has been protected, which would necessitate additional costs for the windows, doors, and floor. Further enhancements could include bulletproofing the fuel tank, engine, and other internal components.
Experts have noted clear indicators that the windows of the “Golf Force One” have been armored. A former police officer who operates a protective vehicle company pointed to the black banding across the windscreen as evidence. Such comprehensive protection for the “Golf Force One” is considered logical, especially following an assassination attempt on President Trump at a golf course in 2024. This operational vehicle represents a realized project for the president, unlike some previous concepts, such as a twin-engine F55 fighter jet.
