The Largest U.S. Aircraft Carrier Heads to Crete for Maintenance
The world’s largest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, operated by the U.S. Navy, is preparing to sail to Crete for maintenance following a fire and a series of technical issues.
Having been deployed for nearly nine months, the carrier was most recently supporting operations against Iran in the Red Sea. A fire that broke out onboard caused injuries among the crew and significant damage. According to The Guardian, the fire started in the ship’s main laundry area and took hours to bring under control. Around 200 sailors were affected by smoke inhalation, and nearly 100 berths were rendered unusable.
U.S. officials stated that there was no damage to the ship’s propulsion system and that it remains fully operational. However, maintenance requirements have increased following the incident.
The withdrawal of USS Gerald R. Ford from the region is seen as a development that could create a temporary gap in U.S. military presence in the Middle East. However, it is reported that the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush is expected to replace it.
