Trump mandates return to steam catapults

🇺🇸 UNITED STATES — President Trump has directed the US Navy to abandon the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) in favor of traditional steam-powered catapults for Ford-class aircraft carriers. The decision, aimed at reverting to older technology, has drawn significant criticism from naval experts who argue the move undermines modern maritime capabilities. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is tasked with overseeing this transition despite widespread opposition regarding the efficacy and age of steam-based systems.

First reported by scmp.com · developing for 10 days · 9 sourcescnn.com'Very outdated': Trump's directive to revert to steam catapults on new aircraft carrier baffles naval experts abc.net.auDonald Trump orders US Navy to use dated fighter launching technology on aircraft carriers irishtimes.comTrump orders Pentagon to redesign US aircraft carrier to use steam catapults to launch jets arabnews.comTrump orders US carriers back to steam catapults as China, France move ahead with EMALS hindustantimes.comTrump's steam catapult choice over EMALS for aircraft carriers slammed by security expert: 'Some drunk old pilot…'scmp.comTrump orders US aircraft carriers to go back to steam catapults +3 more outlets

Why it matters

This directive marks a major strategic shift in naval military procurement, risking the obsolescence of advanced aircraft carrier launch capabilities.

Context

Steam catapults are complex mechanical systems that have been the standard since the 1950s but require significant maintenance compared to electromagnetic alternatives.