Trump Orders Navy to Revert to Older Steam Catapults, Potential Billions in Costs

POLICY WIRE — Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump has directed the U.S. Navy to revert to using older steam catapults on aircraft carriers, a decision that could result in significant financial and technological repercussions.

The directive, which sources say harks back to at least 2017, reflects Trump’s longstanding preference for traditional naval technology over newer, electromagnetic catapult systems. The shift is expected to incur substantial costs, potentially running into billions of dollars, as the Navy would need to retrofit existing carriers and retrain personnel.

Military analysts have expressed concerns over the decision, citing the advanced capabilities and efficiency of electromagnetic catapults, which were designed to enhance the launch and recovery operations of modern aircraft. The older steam systems, while reliable, are considered less efficient and more maintenance-intensive.

The move comes amid broader discussions about the U.S. military’s budget and strategic priorities. Critics argue that reverting to outdated technology could undermine the Navy’s operational readiness and competitiveness. Supporters of the decision, however, maintain that steam catapults offer a proven track record and could potentially save costs in the long run.

This decision is the latest in a series of directives from the Trump administration that have sparked debate within military circles. The Navy has yet to release an official statement on the expected timeline and financial impact of the transition.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)