STOBAR[1] carriers like the Kuznetsov are vastly less capable than CATOBAR[2] carriers, they're the budget option. Using a ramp rather than a catapult means tha

STOBAR[1] carriers like the Kuznetsov are vastly less capable than CATOBAR[2] carriers, they're the budget option. Using a ramp rather than a catapult means that the types of aircraft you can operate are more limited and the weapons and fuel loads they can actually get into the air with are significantly reduced. As for the new systems in the Ford class. The EMALS system replaces conventional steam powered catapults because it can be more finely tuned to individual aircraft types. This means less stress on airframes which translates to longer operational lifespans. It also allows for easier launching of a wider variety of aircraft weights. In the case of both the catapult and the elevators, the new systems are mechanically much simpler than the old ones leading to reduced operating costs. All of the changes mentioned exist for a good reason, the issue is that they weren't implemented competently. [1]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/STOBAR https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/STOBAR [2]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CATOBAR https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CATOBAR