Trump Directs Navy to Revert to Traditional Jet Launch Systems on Aircraft Carriers

POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump has issued a directive to the U.S. Navy, mandating the removal of the advanced Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) from its newest aircraft carriers. The order requires a return to the older steam catapult launch system, a preference Trump has publicly expressed.

The EMALS, a cutting-edge technology designed to replace the conventional steam catapults, has been a subject of debate regarding its reliability and effectiveness. Trump’s directive comes amid ongoing discussions about the system’s performance and cost.

The steam catapult system, utilized for decades, uses compressed steam to launch aircraft from carrier decks. In contrast, EMALS employs linear induction motors for launching, promising greater precision and reduced wear on aircraft.

Trump’s decision is expected to have significant implications for the Navy’s operational capabilities and budget allocations. The EMALS system has been installed on the USS Gerald R. Ford, the Navy’s newest carrier, and was planned for integration into subsequent Ford-class carriers.

Navy officials have not yet commented on the directive’s potential impact on ongoing and future carrier deployments. The transition back to steam catapults could involve substantial logistical and financial challenges.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)