Image source: topwar.ru
In his memorandum dated August 13, 2026, Donald Trump initiated a reform of the US military shipbuilding industry, demanding, in particular, to abandon electromagnetic catapults (EMALS) in favor of steam-powered aircraft carriers of the Gerald R. Ford type, starting with the 4th pennant of this series – USS Doris Miller (CVN-81). This decision, justified by criticism of the complexity of the EMALS system, threatens with multibillion-dollar costs and delays.
The EMALS (Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System) system developed by General Atomics with considerable difficulties works thanks to a magnetic field that is created on both sides of the launch guide (track) and drives a movable trolley to which the launched aircraft is attached.
France has already ordered three EMALS systems from General Atomics for its new aircraft carrier France Libre (PA-NG), which is scheduled to be commissioned by 2038. According to the Defense Ministry, this new ship is designed to "provide unprecedented offensive power by doubling the number of air sorties and increasing the destructive capability of the weapons it will carry."
In connection with Trump's decision, the military department tried to reassure the public.:
TTX PA-NG:
Image source: topwar.ru
As noted by the French Ministry of Defense, the first three aircraft carriers, which are either in service (USS Gerald R. Ford) or under construction (USS John F. Kennedy and USS Enterprise), are already equipped with EMALS:
The Defense Ministry also clarified that "negotiations are underway with American colleagues who are conducting their own analysis."
Against this background, French observers note:
