Trump Orders Navy to Revert to Steam Catapults on Ford-Class Carriers
President Donald Trump has issued a presidential memorandum ordering the US Navy to revert to steam catapults for launching aircraft from its next Gerald Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the USS Doris Miller. The move, which defies opposition from many naval officers, is expected to cost hundreds of millions of dollars. Trump has long criticized the modern electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) used on the lead ship of the class, USS Gerald R. Ford, which has faced technical problems. In the memorandum, Trump directs Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to develop a plan within 60 days for integrating hydraulic catapults into the fourth ship of the class. Trump's criticism dates back several years and was renewed last month when he recounted a servicemember's complaint that steam is better and can be fixed with a hammer and blowtorch. The decision marks a significant reversal in naval aviation technology, as EMALS was designed to be more efficient and require less maintenance than steam systems.
Key facts
- Trump ordered the US Navy to use steam catapults on the next Ford-class carrier.
- The order is in a presidential memorandum to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
- The plan must be developed within 60 days.
- The USS Doris Miller will be the fourth ship in the Gerald R. Ford class.
- The Navy has struggled with the electromagnetic launch system on USS Gerald R. Ford.
- Trump has criticized the system for years, citing a servicemember's complaint.
- The move is expected to cost hundreds of millions of dollars.
- Naval officers oppose the change.
Entities
Institutions
- US Navy
- US Department of Defense
Locations
- United States