Summary
The USS Gerald R Ford, a US Navy aircraft carrier, is heading to Crete for repairs after a fire caused significant damage and injured sailors. The carrier has been deployed in the Middle East for nearly nine months as part of US operations involving Iran. The cause of the fire is under investigation, and the ship will undergo more than a week of repairs.
Key Facts
- The USS Gerald R Ford is the US Navy's newest and most advanced aircraft carrier.
- A fire broke out last week in the ship's laundry facility, injuring sailors and damaging the ship.
- The ship has been patrolling the Middle East for nearly nine months due to US operations related to Iran.
- Over 200 crew members were checked for smoke inhalation, with one sailor evacuated for medical treatment.
- More than 100 beds were damaged by smoke, prompting the delivery of replacement bedding.
- Despite the fire, the ship remains operational and will get repairs at a Navy base in Crete.
- The ship has had previous issues, including a toilet system malfunction earlier this year.
- The USS George H.W. Bush is expected to relieve the Ford soon.
