Trump Orders Return to Steam Catapults for US Aircraft Carriers

President Donald Trump has mandated the U.S. Navy to revert to using steam catapults for launching aircraft from its carriers. This decision is based on Trump's long-stated preference for steam over the current hydraulic system. A presidential memorandum has been issued instructing Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to develop a plan within 60 days regarding the implementation of steam catapults on the next Gerald Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, the USS Doris Miller.

The USS Doris Miller will be the fourth ship in a planned series of six vessels in this class. Trump's order has generated mixed reactions within the Navy, with many naval officers reportedly opposed to the switch back to steam technology.

The decision aligns with Trump's concerns regarding the reliability and efficiency of the existing hydraulic catapults, which are used on the newest class of aircraft carriers. The advanced system has been a subject of debate within naval circles, particularly regarding its performance compared to traditional steam catapults.

In addition to the directive on launching systems, Trump has also given the Navy the green light to build certain ships abroad. Details regarding this aspect of the order have not been elaborated upon.