President Donald Trump has ordered the U.S. Navy to discontinue the use of the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) on its newest aircraft carriers and revert to older steam catapults. This directive, issued on Thursday, requires the Pentagon and the Navy to present plans for the removal of EMALS within two months. The decision is expected to incur significant costs and complicate maintenance, as the older system requires more personnel to operate.
Trump's criticism of EMALS dates back to at least 2017, when he expressed concerns about its effectiveness compared to steam catapults. The memo specifies that the USS Doris Miller will be the first carrier to implement these changes, while the USS Gerald R. Ford and the upcoming USS John F. Kennedy and USS Enterprise will remain equipped with EMALS. General Atomics, the manufacturer of EMALS, has raised concerns about the implications of this decision, citing potential cost and integration risks.
The Navy is currently facing challenges in recruiting sufficient personnel, with approximately 20,000 unfilled positions across the fleet. The electromagnetic system has been praised for its efficiency, allowing for faster aircraft launches and requiring fewer sailors to operate. Congress is also reviewing budget proposals that include funding for the military and other priorities amid ongoing discussions about defense spending.