Key facts
- President Donald Trump has ordered the Navy to remove the electromagnetic catapult system from its aircraft carriers.
- The directive mandates a return to steam catapults for launching jet fighters.
- The change is expected to cost billions of dollars.
- Trump has expressed concerns about the complexity and cost of the electromagnetic launch system.
President Donald Trump has issued an order directing the U.S. Navy to remove the electromagnetic aircraft launch system from its Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carriers and revert to using steam catapults. The White House confirmed the directive, which was signed via a national security memorandum.
Trump has frequently voiced criticism of the electromagnetic launch system, deeming it too complex and expensive compared to traditional steam catapults. He stated at a defense summit that billions of dollars were spent on the electric catapults, which he believes are not as effective. The change is anticipated to cost billions of dollars and could potentially delay the construction of future carriers.
The Navy currently operates Nimitz-class carriers that utilize steam-powered catapults and hydraulic elevators. The Ford-class carriers, however, feature the newer electromagnetic launch system and advanced weapons elevators, which have reportedly faced reliability and maintenance issues. Trump's intention to mandate steam catapults and hydraulic elevators for future carriers was announced during remarks to servicemembers in Japan.