Trump’s Nostalgic Push for Steam Power in the Navy

Donald Trump’s fascination with steam power has resurfaced in a significant way, highlighting his preference for aesthetics over practicality in military technology. Since 2017, Trump has been vocal about his desire to see the Navy return to steam catapults, a sentiment he reiterated at a rally in 2023, describing the sight of steam propelling jets off aircraft carriers as "beautiful" and "cheap." His obsession has now led to a contentious directive for the upcoming USS Doris Miller, which is to be outfitted with steam catapults instead of the planned Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS).

This decision, which comes as the ship's components are already being manufactured, raises concerns about significant cost increases and delays. Experts caution that modifying the Doris Miller’s design at this late stage could lead to a logistical nightmare, potentially costing taxpayers billions and pushing the ship's completion into the mid-2030s. General Atomics, the contractor developing the EMALS, has warned that a shift to steam power could introduce severe integration risks, as the necessary infrastructure for steam has not been laid out in the ship's current design.

While Trump argues that steam is an economical alternative, analysts indicate that EMALS offers greater reliability and requires fewer repairs over time, ultimately saving taxpayer dollars in the long run. Trump’s rationale for the change remains unclear, especially given pressing military issues, such as munitions shortages and the deteriorating conditions aboard other carriers like the USS Abraham Lincoln.

Trump’s approach to naval design also extends beyond catapults; he is reportedly considering repositioning command centers on aircraft carriers to evoke the aesthetic of World War II vessels, despite the current designs prioritizing efficiency and safety.

Additionally, Trump has proposed a new class of battleship, whimsically named the "Trump class," which is aimed at being larger and more visually appealing, with an estimated total cost of around $275 billion for taxpayers. This willingness to reshape military architecture according to personal taste reflects a broader trend in Trump's governance style, where aesthetics often take precedence over functionality.

Amidst these developments, many are questioning the timing of such vanity projects, particularly as the U.S. faces real military challenges. With the nation engaged in ongoing conflicts, some argue that the Navy's resources should focus on pressing operational needs rather than indulging in personal whims. Trump’s directive for steam catapults may symbolize more than just a preference for style; it raises critical questions about the future direction of U.S. military capabilities at a time when strategic efficacy is paramount.

Source: www.theatlantic.com