Trump Orders Steam Catapults for Navy Aircraft Carriers 2026

President Trump has ordered the Pentagon to redesign a new aircraft carrier to use steam catapults instead of the modern electromagnetic launch system. This decision, outlined in a national security memorandum, directs the Navy to replace the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) with steam and hydraulic systems on the USS Doris Miller, a Ford-class carrier already two years behind schedule.

The memorandum gives Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao 60 days to develop a plan. Trump has long criticized EMALS, calling it "digital" and too complicated, and has pushed for the older steam technology since at least 2017. His preference stems from a conversation with an unnamed Navy officer, which he has retold multiple times over the years.

Why Trump Prefers Steam Catapults Over EMALS

Trump's skepticism of EMALS is rooted in his belief that the system is over-engineered and costly. In his 2017 Time magazine interview, he recounted telling the officer, "You're going to goddamned steam, the digital costs hundreds of millions of dollars more money and it's no good." He has repeated this story annually, including during a 2018 Thanksgiving call with the USS Ronald Reagan's commanding officer and at a 2019 fundraiser for Republican donors.

However, military experts note that EMALS offers significant advantages, including smoother acceleration, reduced stress on airframes, and the ability to launch heavier aircraft. Steam catapults, while proven, are less efficient and require more maintenance. The decision to revert to steam has raised concerns about cost overruns and delays, especially since the USS Doris Miller is already behind schedule.

Comparing Steam and Electromagnetic Launch Systems

To understand the implications, here is a comparison of the two systems:

The table highlights that while steam systems are older and simpler, they may not meet future naval aviation needs. EMALS was designed to support a wider range of aircraft, including drones and lighter planes, which is critical for modern carrier operations.

Impact on the USS Doris Miller and Future Carriers

The USS Doris Miller, named after a World War II hero, is part of the Ford-class carriers. The switch to steam would require significant design changes, potentially adding years to its construction timeline. The Navy has already invested heavily in EMALS for this class, and retrofitting could be costly. However, Trump's memorandum insists on the change, giving the Pentagon limited time to propose a feasible plan.

Experts warn that this move could disrupt supply chains and increase costs, as steam catapult components are no longer in production. The Navy would need to restart manufacturing lines and retrain personnel, adding further delays. This decision also raises questions about the future of EMALS on other carriers, such as the USS Gerald R. Ford, which is already operational with the system.

Key Takeaways From This Decision

• Trump's preference for steam catapults is based on personal skepticism of digital systems, not operational data.
• The USS Doris Miller will face additional delays and costs due to the redesign.
• EMALS offers technological advantages that steam cannot match, including better launch precision and support for diverse aircraft.
• The Pentagon has 60 days to submit a plan, but feasibility remains uncertain.

Reactions and Future Outlook

Military analysts and lawmakers have expressed mixed reactions. Some support Trump's push for proven technology, while others argue that reverting to steam is a step backward. The Navy has not yet commented publicly, but internal sources suggest resistance to the change. The memorandum's requirement for a plan within 60 days indicates urgency, but the complexity of the task may lead to delays.

As the debate continues, one thing is clear: this decision will have long-lasting effects on U.S. naval capabilities. Whether steam catapults will actually be reinstalled remains to be seen, but the order marks a significant shift in defense policy. For now, the focus is on how the Pentagon will respond to the directive and what it means for the future of aircraft carrier design.

FAQ

This decision underscores the ongoing tension between technological advancement and traditional methods in military procurement. As the Navy navigates this directive, the impact on national security and defense budgets will be closely watched.

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