WASHINGTON / RED SEA – Two U.S. sailors were injured in a non‑combat fire aboard the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) on March 12, the U.S. military confirmed, amid its ongoing deployment in the Red Sea as part of operations against Iran.
According to statements from U.S. Central Command, the fire originated in the ship’s main laundry spaces and was contained without spreading.
The incident did not affect the carrier’s propulsion system, and the vessel remains fully operational.
Both sailors suffered non‑life‑threatening injuries and are being treated in stable condition. U.S. military officials said the fire was not related to combat operations.
On March 12, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) experienced a fire that originated in the ship’s main laundry spaces. The cause of the fire was not combat-related and is contained.There is no damage to the ship’s propulsion plant, and the aircraft carrier remains fully operational.
The USS Gerald R. Ford is deployed in support of military operations in the Middle East, where U.S. forces have been intensifying a campaign against Iranian targets under the broader banner of Operation Epic Fury.
The fire comes amid heightened regional tensions and after the carrier had transited strategic waterways to position itself for ongoing operations. International attention remains focused on developments involving U.S. and allied military efforts in the region.
Further details from the U.S. Navy are expected as investigations into the incident continue.
