The USS Gerald R Ford, the world's largest aircraft carrier, is set to sail to Crete for repairs following a fire that injured sailors and destroyed 100 beds. The vessel has been at sea for nearly nine months, raising concerns about crew morale and ship readiness.
The fire broke out in the main laundry area, with nearly 200 sailors treated for smoke-related injuries. One service member was flown off the ship. The Pentagon did not immediately comment, but US Central Command reported two sailors with non-life-threatening injuries. The ship's propulsion plant was undamaged, and it was initially deemed fully operational.
The carrier has also faced significant toilet system issues, with frequent clogs requiring costly acid flushes. The Navy acknowledged the problem but stated that clogs are addressed promptly. Senator Mark Warner criticised the extended deployment, saying the crew has been pushed to the brink due to President Trump's military decisions.
The Ford's withdrawal will leave a gap in US forces in the region, where its aircraft have conducted strikes on Iran. The USS George HW Bush is expected to relieve it. The carrier previously participated in operations against Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro.
