US President Donald Trump has ordered the Navy to abandon the modern electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) on aircraft carriers and return to traditional steam catapults. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Reuters.
Trump's decision is driven by concerns over the reliability of the new technology. The electromagnetic system was first used on the aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford, but it experienced numerous technical malfunctions.
According to the president's order, the Navy must return to steam catapults, which are considered an older but time-tested technology. This decision could affect the design and construction of new US Navy aircraft carriers.
According to Reuters, Trump's demand has sparked debate among military and industry officials. Some experts argue that steam catapults are less efficient, while the new system has advantages in the long term.
However, the president's order appears concrete and final. The Navy has been tasked with revising plans and beginning measures to restore steam catapults in a short timeframe.
This decision will impact the direction of US fleet development and may introduce adjustments to the construction of new aircraft carriers. This move by the Trump administration demonstrates a return to traditional approaches in military technology.