I'm not likely to start a thread about F-35C catapults so here is some info:
Navy's F-35C Takes Historic Step Forward Following Budgetary Turmoil 14 Nov 2014 Kris Osborn
"...The testing is also assessing how the F-35C catapults off the deck. The steam catapult on board the Nimitz is thrusting the aircraft off the deck at a range of speeds in order to test the slowest and fastest potential takeoff speeds, said Lt. Eric Ryziu, catapult arresting gear officer.
Aircraft are able to reach speeds up to 160 knots in about 2.5 seconds as a result of being thrust forward by the steam catapult, which stretches about 300 feet. The steam catapult generates 520 PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure pushing pistons forward. The pistons push cylinders connected to a shuttle attached to a launch bar, which pulls the aircraft forward, Ryziu explained."
Navy's F-35C Takes Historic Step Forward Following Budgetary Turmoil | Military.com