USS Gerald R. Ford experiences launch gear failures

By The Australian Strategic Policy Institute - February 6, 2019.

A new Pentagon report reveals that the US Navy’s new aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, experienced several critical failures of its launch and arresting gear during sea trials.

Two years after its delivery, the ship is still plagued by reliability issues affecting its new EMALS (electromagnetic aircraft launch system).

The Pentagon has also reportedly identified problems with the navy’s P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The P-8A’s ability to conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations has been hampered by reduced aircraft availability and sensor deficiencies.