The United States has withdrawn its largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, from the ongoing conflict involving Iran after a fire and multiple technical failures disrupted its mission.
The carrier had been deployed to Middle Eastern waters from Souda Bay in Greece and was actively involved in operations. However, it is now returning to a U.S. military base on the island of Crete for repairs, according to defense sources.
Fire and system failures force withdrawal
A fire broke out in the ship’s laundry section on March 12, injuring two sailors and damaging around 100 beds along with other equipment. The vessel has also been facing serious sewage system issues, with pipeline faults causing waste overflow and rendering most onboard restrooms unusable.
Engineers have stated that these problems cannot be repaired at sea and require dockyard maintenance, forcing the ship to suspend its role in the conflict.
Key role in early stages of the war
The USS Gerald R. Ford, alongside the USS Abraham Lincoln, had been central to military operations since tensions escalated into war on February 28 involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. Many airstrikes and combat missions were launched from these carriers.
Extended deployment and crew fatigue
The carrier has been at sea for about nine months, exceeding the U.S. Navy’s standard six-month deployment limit. The extended mission has led to increased wear on the vessel and fatigue among crew members.
Prior to its Middle East deployment, the ship was involved in anti-drug operations in the Caribbean Sea.
Return to base for maintenance
Taking into account the technical failures and crew condition, U.S. defense officials decided to withdraw the vessel. It is now heading to Crete, where repairs will be carried out and personnel will be given time to recover.
