USS Gerald R. Ford Arrives in Crete for Repairs Following Red Sea Deployment and Onboard Fire
The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), the U.S. Navy’s newest and largest aircraft carrier, arrived at NATO’s Crete Naval Base in Souda Bay, Greece, on Monday, March 24, 2026, for repairs following an extended deployment in the Eastern Mediterranean and Northern Red Sea. The carrier’s arrival follows a non-combat fire that occurred on March 12, 2026 and impacted crew accommodations.
Operation Epic Fury and Deployment Context
The USS Gerald R. Ford was actively supporting Operation Epic Fury, a U.S.-led military campaign launched on February 28, 2026, aimed at dismantling key elements of Iran’s security apparatus. This included targeting command facilities, air defenses, missile sites, and related infrastructure. The carrier played a central role in the operation through flight operations conducted by its embarked Carrier Air Wing. Prior to this deployment, the Ford had also visited Souda Bay in February 2026.
Fire Incident and Damage Assessment
A significant non-combat fire broke out on March 12, 2026, originating in the carrier’s main laundry spaces, specifically within the ventilation/dryer vent system. The blaze took over 30 hours to fully extinguish, causing extensive smoke and heat damage. The fire rendered more than 100 berthing spaces (sleeping quarters) unusable, damaging or contaminating bedding.
Reports indicate that between 200 and 600 sailors were affected, with some assessed for smoke inhalation and others displaced from their sleeping quarters. Sailors improvised sleeping arrangements by using mattresses on floors, tables, and other open areas throughout the ship. One service member was reportedly flown off the ship with injuries.
U.S. Officials confirmed that the ship’s propulsion system was not damaged and that the aircraft carrier remained operational for flight operations and mission support despite the incident.
Repairs and Future Operations
The USS Gerald R. Ford is scheduled to undergo more than a week of planned maintenance at the strategic NATO/U.S.-supported facility in Souda Bay. This will include pierside repairs and refueling. The carrier’s departure from the region temporarily leaves the United States without a significant aircraft carrier presence in the Middle East. The ship carries over 5,000 sailors and more than 75 military aircraft, including F-18 Super Hornet fighter jets, and is equipped with a sophisticated radar system.
Recent Challenges and Deployment Length
The fire is the latest in a series of challenges faced by the USS Gerald R. Ford during its approximately nine-month deployment. The length of the deployment has raised concerns about crew morale and the readiness of the $13 billion warship. Reports also indicate issues with clogged toilets have contributed to the challenges faced by the crew.