Trump's catapult decision does not threaten French aircraft carrier's systems, Paris assures

Paris has affirmed that its acquisition of advanced electromagnetic catapult systems from the United States for its future aircraft carrier, the France Libre, remains secure despite Donald Trump's preference for traditional steam catapults on upcoming American vessels. The French Ministry of Armed Forces stated that the decision does not pose any technical or industrial risks to the supply or long-term maintenance of the EMALS (Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System) for the French carrier.

In a statement to AFP, the ministry emphasized that the production and maintenance of the EMALS for the France Libre, expected to replace the Charles De Gaulle in 2038, are not jeopardized. This assurance comes after Trump announced a return to steam catapults, citing their perceived reliability over the newer electromagnetic technology. Such a shift could potentially impact the industrial base supporting EMALS, as sustained orders are crucial for the economic viability of the technology over decades.

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No particular technical or industrial risk is identified for the manufacturing of the electromagnetic catapults intended for the (next aircraft carrier) France Libre, or their maintenance in the coming decades.

However, French officials pointed to the existing US naval program as a safeguard. The first three Ford-class aircraft carriers – the USS Gerald Ford, USS John F. Kennedy, and USS Enterprise – are already equipped with or are under construction with EMALS. This existing fleet ensures that the manufacturing and maintenance infrastructure for the electromagnetic catapults remains active and operational, thereby securing the supply chain for France's needs.

The Direction générale de l'armement (General Directorate for Armament) is continuing discussions with its American counterparts, who are conducting their own analyses of the situation. While Trump's decision is slated to affect the USS Doris Miller, scheduled for delivery in 2034, the prior installations on other Ford-class carriers are expected to provide sufficient industrial continuity. The France Libre is set to be equipped with General Atomics' EMALS, a system considered crucial for its operational capabilities.

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The three first aircraft carriers, which are either in service or under construction, are already equipped with electromagnetic catapults. These systems are developed and operational. The manufacturing and maintenance chain for these catapults is therefore active.