The thrust of the EMALS can be modulated during the stroke to accelerate the aircraft gradually and apply the thrust throughout the catapult’s travel. This force profile is much less damaging to the airframes during launch. The use of electricity also reduces the chances of a “cold cat shot” where the energy applied is reduced by the loss of steam pressure.
Tests like this have been done since the British invented the catapult take-off around the end of WW II.
At the other end of the ship is also another new technology, the Advanced Arresting Gear, that uses water braking and electric motors to stop the aircraft.
EMALS for the win.
The thrust of the EMALS can be modulated during the stroke to accelerate the aircraft gradually and apply the thrust throughout the catapult’s travel. This force profile is much less damaging to the airframes during launch. The use of electricity also reduces the chances of a “cold cat shot” where the energy applied is reduced by the loss of steam pressure.
Tests like this have been done since the British invented the catapult take-off around the end of WW II.
At the other end of the ship is also another new technology, the Advanced Arresting Gear, that uses water braking and electric motors to stop the aircraft.