Fire damages aircraft carrier, sailors treated for smoke injuries
The US aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford is returning to the Souda base in Crete following a fire onboard that caused damage, according to US officials cited by Reuters. The carrier, the largest warship in the world, has been deployed in the Red Sea as part of US operations against Iran.
Nine months at sea raises concerns
The Gerald R. Ford has been in continuous service for nine months, previously operating in the Caribbean against Venezuela before arriving in the Middle East. Officials noted that the extended deployment has raised questions about sailor morale and the ship’s operational readiness. The duration of the carrier’s stay in Crete has not been disclosed.
Fire details and crew injuries
The fire broke out in the ship’s laundry area and took several hours to control. It caused damage to approximately 100 sleeping quarters. Nearly 200 sailors required medical treatment for smoke-related injuries, and one service member was evacuated due to injury.
US Navy response
Officials did not provide a timeline for repairs but confirmed that the temporary stop at the Souda base is intended to address damage and ensure the vessel’s operational capability before resuming deployment.
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