The US Mark 90 railgun was conceived after an earlier railgun prototype was canceled due to severe barrel integrity issues, with the barrel deteriorating after each shot. A year later, the US Navy revived the idea, seeking a railgun to provide cost-effective shore bombardment, avoiding the high expense of missile systems.

After six years of development, a prototype was built and sent for testing aboard the USS Gerald Ford-class aircraft carrier. For safety, all aircraft were moved below deck, and the railgun was mounted on the stern. Initial sea trials showed promise, with the railgun performing well during the first stages of testing.

However, during the final test, the railgun's barrel failed catastrophically. After 500 rounds, the barrel became severely damaged, causing a high-explosive shell to tumble and detonate inside the gun. The resulting explosion caused significant damage to the carrier's deck, costing millions in repairs. Following this disaster, the Mark 90 program was canceled, and the company responsible was sued for $3 million.