Ask the Chatbot Games & Quizzes History & Society Science & Tech Biographies Animals & Nature Geography & Travel Arts & Culture ProCon Money Videos
electromagnetic aircraft launch system
References
Britannica AI Icon

electromagnetic aircraft launch system

military technology
Also known as: EMALS
Written by
The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

The Information Architects maintain a master list of the topics included in the corpus of  EncyclopƦdia Britannica, and create and manage the relationships between them.
The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Last updated

Quick Summary

The electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) is a revolutionary technology that replaces traditional steam-powered catapults on aircraft carriers. It utilizes a linear synchronous motor, essentially an electric motor with magnetic coils, to accelerate aircraft along the deck.1

This system offers several advantages:
* Reduced Stress: EMALS places less strain on both the aircraft and the launching mechanisms.1
* Adjustable Power: The energy output can be precisely controlled, making it suitable for launching aircraft of varying weights, including future carrier-based drones.1
* Electromagnetic Arresting Gear: The arresting gear system, used for landing, also employs electromagnets.1

The USS Gerald R. Ford is the first aircraft carrier to feature this advanced technology, which requires significantly increased onboard electrical power generation.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
2 Britannica Sources
  1. USS Gerald R. Ford
  2. ALCM

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.