US Navy Considers Redesign of Ford-Class Carriers

The U.S. Navy is considering major redesigns for its new Ford-class aircraft carriers, prompted by President Donald Trump's preferences for the vessels' appearance. The evaluations include relocating the carrier's island structure and potentially replacing the electromagnetic catapult system (EMALS) with older steam catapults.

President Trump has expressed a desire for new aircraft carriers to resemble the classic warships of World War II. As a result, the Navy is exploring moving the carrier's island, which houses the bridge and command facilities, closer to the center of the ship. Current Ford-class carriers feature an island positioned further aft, a design intended to enhance flight deck efficiency and safety.

Furthermore, a national security directive has ordered the Navy to abandon EMALS for future carrier constructions and reinstate steam catapults. This change will primarily affect the USS Doris Miller (CVN-81), the fourth Ford-class carrier, while the first three ships will continue with EMALS. The directive also calls for the establishment of a fifth public Navy shipyard, the first in over 80 years, to boost maintenance and repair capabilities.

These potential design changes, particularly the relocation of the island, represent substantial engineering challenges and could lead to significant cost increases and construction delays. The EMALS system's production is already well underway, and switching to steam would involve extensive re-engineering and integration efforts. General Atomics, the EMALS manufacturer, has stated that nearly 50% of the system for the USS Doris Miller is complete, and a change would carry significant risks.

The Navy previously adopted EMALS to replace steam catapults, citing advantages in smoother acceleration and reduced crew requirements. However, the system has faced reliability issues during testing on the lead ship, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78). The decision to revert to steam catapults and potentially alter the island's placement reflects a complex interplay of presidential direction, technological concerns, and long-term fleet modernization goals.