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Trump Orders Navy to Drop Electromagnetic Launch Systems

8/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump signed a memorandum ordering the Navy to drop electromagnetic launch systems from future carriers, forcing the USS Doris Miller and later ships to use steam catapults.
General Atomics warned the reversal could add billions in cost and create schedule and integration risks.
Hudson Institute expert Bryan Clark said electric launch systems are more reliable and steam carriers cost $100 million more per year.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump signed a memorandum ordering the Navy to drop electromagnetic launch systems from future carriers, forcing the USS Doris Miller and later ships to use steam catapults.
General Atomics warned the reversal could add billions in cost and create schedule and integration risks.
Hudson Institute expert Bryan Clark said electric launch systems are more reliable and steam carriers cost $100 million more per year.