USS Gerald R. Ford pulls into Souda Bay for repairs after Red Sea fire

March 24, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

US Navy’s aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) has arrived at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay for maintenance and resupply following a recent onboard fire in the Red Sea.

As informed, the vessel arrived on March 23, 2026. The port call allows for the ship to undergo efficient assessment, repairs, and resupply, according to the officials.

The port visit comes less than two weeks after a fire broke out aboard the aircraft carrier while it was operating in a high-tempo environment in the Red Sea. While details surrounding the extent of the damage have not been fully disclosed, the navy has maintained that the situation was quickly contained and did not impact the carrier’s operational readiness.

Fire breaks out aboard USS Gerald R. Ford in Red Sea

Operations

In a statement released by US Naval Forces Central Command and US 5th Fleet, it was said the fire originated in the ship’s main laundry spaces and was not combat-related. The crew quickly contained the blaze.

Two sailors sustained injuries during the incident and are currently receiving medical treatment. Officials described their injuries as non-life-threatening, adding that both personnel are in stable condition.

At the time of the incident, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) and its strike group were operating in the Red Sea in support of Operation Epic Fury, the ongoing US-led military campaign targeting Iranian military capabilities across the region.

The navy officials noted that the carrier remains fully mission capable and that the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group will continue its overseas deployment.