The US Navy has decided to proceed with a new aircraft launching system for a new aircraft carrier, despite a review of cost overruns and technology concerns.
Navy spokesman Lieutenant Commander Victor Chen told Reuters that the decision was based on a major review of the program that weighed possible risks to cost, schedule and technical performance.
The US Navy promised to lower overall lifecycle costs and said that the new system would require less maintenance.
San Diego-based General Atomics has been working on the new electromagnetic aircraft launching system (EMALS) for the 'Gerald R Ford' to allow it to launch more jets from the flight deck.
The Navy has commenced fixed-price contract negotiations with General Atomics to keep the program on schedule and to limit cost growth.
