Or we suffered a hit and are covering it up.
“As of March 18, 2026, the Ford is withdrawing from the Red Sea after suffering a fire in its laundry area that injured sailors and damaged over 100 berths. It is now heading to Souda Bay, Crete, for repairs, taking it out of active operations. The USS George H.W. Bush is preparing to relieve it in the Middle East.”
“The USS Gerald R. Ford has been on station for nearly 10 months as of mid-March 2026, with its deployment expected to extend into May 2026, potentially reaching 11 months at sea. This would surpass the post-Vietnam War record of 294 days set by the USS Abraham Lincoln.
Extended Deployment Timeline:
The carrier departed Norfolk on June 24, 2025, and was initially expected to complete a standard 6- to 8-month deployment. However, due to heightened tensions and ongoing military operations involving Iran, its mission was extended twice. “
The Bush did it’s repairs 3 months ago and left to replace the Ford. As an old Navy guy, I can tell you it is normal. They cannot stay on the Ocean indefinitely and stay on Mission. so I believe this was a planned rotation. The fire was unfortunate, but who do you believe? the Media? Iran? or the Navy Commanders?