France Confirms Electromagnetic Catapults for Future Aircraft Carrier
Paris secures critical US-made technology for the France Libre carrier despite political uncertainty.
1Strategic Procurement Confirmed
France has officially ordered three electromagnetic catapult systems from the American firm General Atomics for its future aircraft carrier, the France Libre. Despite recent political rhetoric from Donald Trump regarding a potential return to steam technology, the French government maintains its commitment to the EMALS system for the vessel's 2038 deployment.
2Technological Advantages Over Steam
The electromagnetic system offers significant operational improvements over the current steam-based C13 catapults used on the Charles de Gaulle. EMALS allows for faster launch cadences by reducing the time required for system stabilization between cycles. Furthermore, the technology occupies less space, enabling the installation of three catapults instead of just two.
3Enhanced Operational Versatility
The new system provides the flexibility to launch a diverse range of aircraft, including the Rafale F5 and long-range drones. Because the electromagnetic energy can be precisely adjusted for each launch, it reduces mechanical stress on airframes and landing gear. This capability is essential for the carrier's planned service through the century.
4Industrial Impact and Costs
The catapults represent a 1.2 billion euro investment, accounting for roughly 10 percent of the carrier's total projected cost of 10 to 12 billion euros. Construction will mobilize the French defense industrial base, with over 90 percent of program purchases sourced domestically from a network of approximately 800 suppliers, including many SMEs.
5Addressing Dependency Concerns
While the reliance on American technology for critical defense infrastructure raises questions about sovereignty, officials note that France is already dependent on US steam technology. Lawmakers emphasize that cooperation with the United States has remained stable even during historical periods of geopolitical tension, ensuring the long-term viability of the maintenance chain.
6Dismissing Political Volatility
French officials view statements favoring steam catapults as irrational, noting that the US Navy is already committed to EMALS for its Gerald R. Ford class carriers. Abandoning this technology would cause massive delays and costs for the US, making a reversal highly unlikely despite recent political comments made during the summer.
7Future Sovereignty Aspirations
French lawmakers have proposed amendments to study the feasibility of developing domestic electromagnetic catapult technology for future projects. While currently not intended for the France Libre, this research aims to build long-term strategic autonomy, especially if the nation decides to construct a second sister ship in response to evolving international security threats.
8Financial and Strategic Realities
Developing a domestic catapult industry would require 15 to 20 years and an investment of 3 to 5 billion euros. Given the current defense budget of 436 billion euros for 2024-2030, officials remain cautious about the financial feasibility of a second carrier, prioritizing the successful delivery of the primary vessel by 2038.
Original article: 20 Minutes — France Confirms Electromagnetic Catapults for Future Aircraft Carrier