US Navy Returns to Steam Age Technology
Trump orders replacement of electromagnetic systems with steam technology on aircraft carriers.
1Return to Steam Systems
President Trump has ordered the replacement of Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS) and advanced weapons elevators with traditional steam and hydraulic systems on future aircraft carriers, starting with USS Doris Miller (CVN-81). EMALS uses electromagnetic energy instead of steam to launch aircraft, representing newer technology. The decision marks a significant reversal in naval aviation technology adoption.
2EMALS' Troubled History
First deployed on USS Gerald R. Ford, EMALS technology has suffered reliability issues despite its advantages in adjustable power for different aircraft sizes. The system's failures left the carrier unable to launch aircraft at times. Similar problems plagued the electromagnetic weapons elevators. These issues prompted the Navy to review the entire Ford-class carrier design, questioning the technology's readiness for operational deployment.
3Naval Shipbuilding Overhaul
The presidential memorandum initiates broad changes in Navy shipbuilding programs. A fifth public shipyard will be established to increase submarine and carrier maintenance capacity. Foreign companies can now participate in building US Navy vessels if they commit to constructing new US shipyards or acquiring majority stakes in existing ones after delivering the first two ships overseas. This represents a shift toward international collaboration in defense procurement.
4Design Change Restrictions
The directive imposes strict limits on modifications to original ship designs, requiring Secretary of Defense approval for any changes. This follows the cancellation of the Constellation-class frigate program, where excessive design changes reduced commonality with the original Italian design to just 15% and caused years of delays. The policy aims to prevent similar cost overruns and schedule slips in future programs.
5Foreign Participation Rules
Under the new policy, foreign suppliers can compete for US Navy contracts if they agree to build new American shipyards or take majority ownership in existing ones after initial overseas production. This model resembles last year's US-Finland icebreaker ship Memorandum of Understanding. The approach seeks to balance technology transfer with domestic job creation and industrial capacity building.
6Operational Efficiency Concerns
EMALS' core promise was higher sortie generation rates compared to steam catapults, a capability never fully realized on USS Gerald R. Ford. Navy officials confirmed reviews of CVN-82 and CVN-83 designs to ensure they meet operational requirements. Sortie rate directly impacts a carrier's combat effectiveness, making this a critical performance metric for naval aviation capabilities.
7Defense Industrial Policy
Trump's decision reflects a preference for proven reliability over technological sophistication in defense systems. While steam systems are older technology, they offer established reliability. The move also appears aimed at controlling Navy budget growth, as EMALS systems have higher long-term maintenance costs and complexity compared to traditional steam catapults.
8Strategic Implications
This policy shift signals potential changes in US naval power projection strategy. Reverting to proven technologies may improve short-term operational readiness but could raise questions about technological leadership. As competitors like China invest in electromagnetic weapon systems, the US move might be perceived as a strategic retreat in naval technological advancement during an era of great power competition.
Original article: www.theregister.com - Articles — ABD Donanması'nda Buharlı Sistemlere Dönüş