KATHMANDU | The world’s largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, is preparing to return to the United States following a historic and lengthy deployment. According to U.S. officials, the vessel will depart from the Middle East within a few days and is expected to arrive at its home base in Virginia by May 15.
The ship has completed over 300 days of continuous deployment, during which it played a critical role in regional security. During this period, it operated amidst heightened tensions with Iran and was reportedly involved in military operations aimed at the apprehension of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. This deployment began last June from the naval base in Virginia, initially operating in the Mediterranean before being redirected to the Caribbean in October for the mission involving Maduro. As tensions with Iran escalated, the carrier was then moved to the Middle East.
While operating in the Red Sea in early March after passing through the Suez Canal, a fire broke out in the ship’s laundry department. This incident forced the vessel to return to the Mediterranean for repairs, as the fire caused significant living disruptions for hundreds of sailors on board.
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