USS Gerald Ford fire causes extensive damage, disrupts US carrier operations

In March, a severe fire broke out aboard the U.S. Navy's aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford while it was deployed in the Middle East for operations against Iran. Navy statements described the blaze as “controlled,” but CNN video showed extensive damage: crew berthing racks were reduced to metal frames, the deck was scarred, and dangling electrical wires were visible.

About 600 sailors lost their sleeping quarters and the crew spent roughly 30 hours fighting the flames, dealing with a non‑functioning fire‑suppression system. The incident forced the carrier to halt flight operations for two days and subsequently sail to a port in Greece for temporary repairs. Officials said the carrier, valued at $13 billion, may remain under maintenance for up to a year before returning to full operational status.