Trump Directs Navy to Revert to Steam Catapults on Carriers

Aug 14, 2026

75 min

Aug 14, 2026 08:31

Trump tells Navy to ditch advanced jet-launch system

## Presidential Directive

President Donald Trump has instructed the US Navy to abandon the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) on its Ford-class aircraft carriers in favor of traditional steam catapults. This decision, announced on Thursday, requires the Navy and the Pentagon to submit a plan within two months to implement the change.

## Financial and Operational Implications

Switching back to steam catapults is expected to incur significant costs and increase the number of personnel needed for operations. The Navy is already facing challenges in staffing its ships, with around 20,000 positions unfilled at the start of the year.

## Technological Debate

Trump has criticized the EMALS technology since 2017, arguing it lacks the power of steam systems. Despite this, the electromagnetic system offers advantages such as faster aircraft launches and reduced crew requirements. Other nations, including China and France, are adopting similar technology for their carriers.

## Impact on Future Carriers

The directive specifically targets the USS Doris Miller, the fourth Ford-class carrier, for these changes. The USS Gerald R. Ford, USS John F. Kennedy, and USS Enterprise will not be affected. General Atomics, the company behind EMALS, has expressed concerns about the risks and costs associated with altering the current design of the Doris Miller.

## Broader Military Context

This move comes amid broader discussions on military funding, with the Trump administration seeking a $1.5 trillion defense budget. The decision to revert to steam catapults is part of ongoing debates about military spending and technological advancements.

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