One of the world’s largest aircraft carriers, the U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered USS Gerald R. Ford, arrives in St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands on December 1, 2025. Reuters
The United States aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford will soon head to port after a fire broke out on board. Officials shared the update on Tuesday, marking the 18th day of the ongoing conflict with Iran.
The carrier currently operates in the Red Sea. It will travel to Souda Bay on the Greek island of Crete for a short stop. Authorities have not confirmed how long the ship will remain there.
Fire Injures Sailors On Board
The fire started in the ship’s main laundry area and took several hours to control. Officials said nearly 200 sailors received treatment for smoke-related injuries. One service member needed evacuation from the ship for further medical care.
The incident also affected around 100 sleeping areas, forcing crew members to move to other parts of the vessel.
Earlier updates from the military noted that the ship’s main systems, including propulsion, remained unaffected. The carrier continued to operate despite the incident.
Long Deployment Raises Concerns
The Gerald R. Ford has spent about nine months on deployment. Before arriving in the Middle East, the ship took part in operations in the Caribbean.
The extended time at sea has raised questions about the well-being of crew members and the ship’s readiness. Officials have not commented in detail on these concerns, but the long deployment has drawn attention.
Key Role in Ongoing Conflict
The carrier plays a major role in U.S. operations in the region. It carries more than 5,000 sailors and over 75 aircraft, including fighter jets. The ship also uses advanced radar systems to manage air traffic and support missions.
Supporting vessels in the group include guided missile cruisers and destroyers. These ships provide defence against air, surface, and underwater threats.
Since the conflict began on February 28, U.S. forces have carried out strikes on more than 7,000 targets linked to Iran.
Situation Remains Uncertain
Officials have not shared full details about the damage caused by the fire. The defence department has also not issued a detailed public response so far.
Despite the setback, the carrier remains a key part of military efforts in the region. The upcoming stop in Crete will likely allow crews to assess the situation and recover before continuing operations.
