Aircraft Carrier Catapults: Beyond Aircraft

When most people think of aircraft carrier catapults, the image that often comes to mind is the powerful launch of military aircraft. However, these impressive pieces of engineering can be used for purposes beyond just their primary function. This article delves into the non-traditional uses of aircraft carrier catapults, from ceremonial events to performing surprising experiments with weighted sleds.

Ceremonial Demonstrations: Launching the "Brown Shoes"

After the U.S. Navy retired "Brown Shoes"—a reference to the traditional sailors' footwear—a limited ceremonial launch was performed. This unique display served both as a tribute to the historic footwear and as a demonstration of the capability of the catapults. Such ceremonial demonstrations are rare and underscore the dual purpose of these systems—both for practical use and for arranging memorable displays.

Testing with Dead Loads

During the commissioning, maintenance, or when integrated systems need to be tested, aircraft carrier catapults undergo rigorous testing procedures. One such test involves the use of a dead load, a weighted sled or cart, to assess the system's performance without the risk associated with launching actual aircraft. This article provides an in-depth look at what a "dead load" entails and how it is used to ensure the safety and reliability of these critical systems.


Here, a car is off a French carrier in a demonstration of dead load testing, though it is part of a TV commercial. This type of testing is a standard procedure to ensure the catapult can handle various loads, including those that might arise from maintenance scenarios.

Exploring Non-Traditional Tests

Although it may seem unconventional, catapults have occasionally been tested with non-traditional loads. For example, there have been instances where personnel conducted wakeboarding tests. While this may seem like a fun experiment, it raises concerns among naval officials due to the potential risks and the cost involved in using such expensive equipment.

In one instance, a weighted sled was successfully used to test a catapult. The sled, which was equivalent to a person on a wakeboard, was launched by the catapult to simulate real-world conditions without the need for actual aircraft. This method provides valuable data on the system's performance while minimizing the risks and costs associated with manned tests.


Despite the potential for entertaining footage, such non-traditional uses of catapults are not without controversy. The skipper and command team must thoroughly assess the risks and ensure that any tests align with safety protocols and budget constraints.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

Aircraft carrier catapults are undoubtedly marvels of modern engineering, designed for the precise and safe launch of aircraft. However, they can also be utilized for a variety of non-traditional testing scenarios, from ceremonial demonstrations to wakeboarding tests. These unconventional uses not only highlight the versatility of the systems but also underscore the importance of thorough testing and adherence to safety protocols.

As technology advances, we can expect to see even more creative applications of these systems. Whether it's through further refinement of dead load testing or even the development of new testing protocols, the future promises to be both exciting and innovative.