An improved electromagnetic actuator of the type comprising (a) a first assembly (12); (b) a second assembly (20) movable relative to the first assembly (12) along an axis of relative movement (30) in response to a command signal, the second assembly (20) comprising magnetic flux source means (44) for defining radially directed flux both in an inward and outward direction relative to the axis of relative movement (30); (c) coil assembly means for defining at least two coil segments (16) respectively disposed in the paths of the flux in the inward and outward directions; and (d) means for applying the command signal to the coil segments (16) so that a current flows in one direction around the axis (30) through the inward directed flux, and flows in the opposite direction around the axis (30) through the outward directed flux so that the flux/current force applied between the first and second assemblies (12 and 20) is additive. In accordance with another aspect the coil sections are wound onto a core element to provide an attached core design. Finally, a brushless actuator design is disclosed.