Trump orders Pentagon to scrap jet launching tech
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The gist
Trump ordered the Pentagon to replace EMALS with steam catapults on the USS Doris Miller. The change could cost billions and delay the carrier's delivery.
Background
President Trump has long criticized the electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) used on the newest Ford-class carriers, calling it too complicated. On Thursday, he issued a directive to the Pentagon and Navy to remove EMALS and the Advanced Weapons Elevators from the USS Doris Miller, the fourth Ford-class carrier, and revert to steam and hydraulic systems. The order requires a plan within two months and is expected to cost billions, adding to the ship's existing delays.
How it unfolded
- 2017Trump first suggested using steam catapults, saying digital systems are too 'complicated'.
- Aug 13, 2026Trump issued a national security memorandum directing the Pentagon to replace EMALS with steam catapults on the USS Doris Miller.
- Aug 14, 2026News outlets reported the directive, noting the order requires a plan within 60 days and could cost billions.
Who’s saying what
- President
- Trump has repeatedly argued that steam catapults are simpler and more reliable than the 'complicated' electromagnetic system.
- Critics
- Critics say the change is an expensive and unnecessary step backward, requiring more sailors and maintenance.
Still unverified
The exact cost of the change has not been officially confirmed; estimates range from millions to billions.