In a bold move that has drawn mixed reactions from military experts and lawmakers alike, former President Donald Trump has instructed the Pentagon to redesign the USS Doris Miller, a Ford-class aircraft carrier, to utilise steam catapults rather than the current electromagnetic systems. This directive, formalised in a national security memorandum, underscores Trump’s long-standing preference for traditional launch mechanisms, a stance he has vocalised since 2017.
A Long-Standing Preference
In a memorandum signed on Thursday, Trump mandated Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao to devise a plan within 60 days for the integration of steam and hydraulic systems to replace the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Weapons Elevators in the new carrier. The USS Doris Miller, already two years behind schedule, is now set to undergo a significant redesign that Trump believes will enhance its operational capabilities.
Trump has been outspoken about his reservations regarding digital technology in military applications, frequently citing conversations with Navy personnel to illustrate his point. He expressed concerns about the complexity and reliability of digital systems, stating, “It sounded bad to me. Digital… you have to be Albert Einstein to figure it out.” This narrative has recurred in various forms throughout his public appearances over the years, demonstrating a sustained commitment to his vision of naval aviation.
Pushback from Military Experts
Despite Trump’s enthusiasm for steam catapults, there is substantial pushback from within the military establishment and defence industry. Senior Navy officials and experts have expressed concerns about the potential costs and logistical challenges associated with dismantling an advanced system that has been nearly half-completed. General Atomics, the firm responsible for developing the EMALS, cautioned that reverting to a steam-based system would impose significant cost overruns and integration risks.
Arizona Senator Mark Kelly, a former astronaut and test pilot, did not mince words regarding the decision. He remarked, “I’ve launched off the front of aircraft carriers hundreds of times… Donald Trump should stick to what he knows best – ballrooms, bankruptcy, and bullshit.” Such strong criticisms highlight the divide between political rhetoric and practical military engineering.
Mental Health Crisis on the USS Abraham Lincoln
Adding to the controversy, the USS Abraham Lincoln has been battling a mental health crisis among its crew during an unprecedented deployment linked to ongoing tensions with Iran. Reports indicate that the carrier’s 5,000 sailors and marines are facing significant strain, which raises questions about the impact of prolonged operations on personnel wellbeing. Critics argue that focusing on design changes at this juncture detracts from addressing the urgent needs of those currently serving.
Why it Matters
The decision to revert to steam catapults illustrates not only Trump’s persistent influence over military policy but also reflects deeper tensions within the U.S. military apparatus regarding technological advancement and operational efficiency. As debates around military readiness and personnel welfare continue to escalate, this directive may set a precedent that prioritises traditional methods over modern innovations. The implications of such a shift could resonate through future defence initiatives, potentially reshaping the landscape of U.S. naval operations in the coming years.
