Trump Orders Navy to Return to Steam Catapults on Aircraft Carriers
Usagevpn.com – Trump orders Navy to return to an older method of launching jets from aircraft carriers, marking a significant shift in naval aviation strategy. The White House directive requires the U.S. Navy to remove electromagnetic catapult systems from its newest carriers and replace them with proven steam-powered technology. President Donald Trump’s memorandum, issued Thursday, gives the Pentagon and naval commanders two months to create detailed plans for dismantling the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System, known as EMALS.
This reversal could cost billions as the military attempts to modernize backward. The order also covers electromagnetic weapons elevators aboard Ford-class carriers—critical components that transport munitions and aircraft throughout the vessel. Such a comprehensive change represents one of the most ambitious technological retractions in recent naval history.
Why Trump Chose Steam Over Electromagnets
President Trump has criticized the electromagnetic catapult system since its introduction, arguing that traditional steam systems deliver superior performance. During his first term, he told reporters that the new technology “doesn’t have the power” of steam and insisted, “You’re going to goddamned steam.” These comments have resonated at military events and campaign rallies throughout the years.
Naval engineers, however, have defended EMALS for multiple operational benefits. The electromagnetic system allows aircraft to launch at higher speeds, requires fewer crew members, takes up less deck space, and reportedly needs less maintenance than steam alternatives. Earlier this year, EMALS aboard the USS Ford cut the number of sailors needed for catapult operations from twelve to just two—addressing critical personnel shortages in the Navy.
Which Carriers Will Face Changes
The presidential memo singles out the USS Doris Miller, the fourth Ford-class carrier, as the first vessel to receive the complete overhaul. This means the USS Doris Miller will be retrofitted with steam catapults while the USS Gerald R. Ford—the lead ship—along with the upcoming USS John F. Kennedy and USS Enterprise, will keep their electromagnetic systems.
This selective strategy creates operational complexities. The Navy will operate carriers with different launch systems simultaneously, potentially complicating training and maintenance procedures. Redesigning a nearly completed vessel presents substantial engineering challenges, requiring extensive structural modifications and internal system reconfiguration.
Manufacturers Voice Concerns
General Atomics, the EMALS manufacturer, has raised serious objections to the decision. The company pointed out that work on the Doris Miller’s catapults and arresting gear was already halfway complete when the directive arrived. In a formal statement, General Atomics warned that reversing course would “introduce significant cost, schedule, and integration risks” to an already complicated program.
The memo itself acknowledged that the Navy’s habit of constant design modifications has historically caused cost overruns, project delays, and even program cancellations. This concern carries particular weight given the scale of modifications needed for the Doris Miller retrofit.
Global Competition and Future Implications
While the United States moves backward technologically, other major naval powers are advancing forward. China’s newest aircraft carriers already use electromagnetic catapult systems, potentially giving their naval aviation a competitive edge in launch efficiency. France has similarly announced plans to incorporate electromagnetic catapult technology into its next-generation carrier program.
This technological divergence raises important questions about future naval competitiveness. The electromagnetic system’s ability to launch heavier aircraft at greater speeds could prove strategically valuable in contested maritime environments, especially as potential adversaries continue modernizing their carrier forces.
Budget Considerations and Congressional Response
The timing of this directive aligns with critical budget discussions in Washington. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently estimated that ongoing operations have escalated costs to $37.5 billion, with Republican lawmakers pushing for fiscal discipline across all military branches. The Navy’s retrofit decision comes as Congress scrutinizes defense spending priorities and demands accountability for major procurement programs.
Industry analysts predict that the steam catapult return could delay the USS Doris Miller’s commissioning by several years while adding approximately $2 billion to the carrier’s total construction costs. Naval aviation experts suggest that the transition period may last up to five years as the Navy develops new training protocols and maintenance procedures for mixed-system carrier operations.
“This isn’t about rejecting innovation—it’s about choosing reliability over complexity when it matters most,” said a Pentagon source familiar with the decision-making process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EMALS and why is it being replaced? EMALS stands for Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System. It uses magnetic fields to accelerate aircraft for takeoff. Trump orders Navy to return to steam catapults because he believes the older technology offers greater reliability and power for carrier operations.
Which aircraft carriers will keep their electromagnetic systems? The USS Gerald R. Ford, USS John F. Kennedy, and USS Enterprise will retain their EMALS technology. Only the USS Doris Miller will undergo the complete steam catapult retrofit.
How much will this change cost taxpayers? Industry estimates suggest the retrofit could add approximately $2 billion to the USS Doris Miller’s construction costs, with the total transition period lasting up to five years.
What advantages does EMALS offer over steam catapults? EMALS allows higher launch velocities, requires fewer crew members (reducing from twelve to two sailors), occupies less deck space, and reportedly demands less maintenance than traditional steam systems.
How does this decision affect international naval competition? China and France are both advancing with electromagnetic catapult technology for their carriers. The U.S. decision to return to steam systems could potentially impact American naval competitiveness in future maritime operations.
