US Aircraft Carrier USS Gerald R. Ford Arrives in Croatia After Red Sea Mission
Carrier docks in Split following repairs in Greece
WASHINGTON:
The US Navy aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford has arrived in the Croatian port city of Split after completing operations in the Red Sea, according to an official Navy statement.
Earlier, the vessel stopped at Souda Bay in Greece, where crews carried out resupply, refueling, and essential repairs. The Navy also confirmed that teams inspected damage caused by a fire that broke out in the ship’s laundry area on March 12. As a result, personnel restored seven affected berthing compartments while continuing the investigation into the incident.
Crew welcomed break after extended deployment
Meanwhile, Captain David Skarosi, the ship’s commanding officer, said the crew looked forward to time ashore. He noted that sailors were “excited to return to Split” after months of demanding operations.
The carrier strike group originally departed from Naval Station Norfolk in June 2025. Since then, it has operated across multiple regions, including the Arctic, Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Red Sea.
Strategic role in regional operations
Currently assigned to the US 6th Fleet, the strike group includes Carrier Air Wing 8, Destroyer Squadron Two, and the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill. Together, they support missions focused on deterrence, economic stability, and the protection of critical sea routes.
Rising tensions and continued conflict
The deployment comes amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Since February 28, the United States and Israel have conducted airstrikes on Iran, resulting in more than 1,340 reported deaths, including Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In response, Iran has launched drone and missile attacks targeting Israel as well as countries such as Jordan, Iraq, and several Gulf states hosting US military assets. Consequently, these attacks have caused casualties, infrastructure damage, and disruptions to global markets and aviation.
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