President Trump has directed the Navy to tear out a complex electromagnetic catapult system for launching jet fighters from its aircraft carriers and instead return to using steam catapults. The change, ordered via a national security memorandum signed on Thursday, applies to the Gerald R. Ford class of carriers.

Navy officials have fought this decision for years, arguing that the electromagnetic system offers better performance and lower long-term costs. The reversal will likely cost billions of dollars, as it involves removing the current system and reinstalling older steam technology.

The move marks a significant shift in naval aviation technology, with Trump favoring the proven steam catapults over newer electromagnetic launch systems. The memorandum was signed on Thursday, and the Navy will now have to plan and execute the costly retrofit. The Gerald R. Ford class carriers are the most advanced in the U.S. fleet, and this change could delay their operational timelines.