A minor blaze, not linked to combat, erupted on board the American aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford as it operated within the Red Sea, the US Navy reported.
The US Naval Forces Central Command stated the event transpired on March 12 and began within the vessel’s primary laundry areas. The origin of the conflagration bore no connection to combat activities, and the inferno has since been brought under control.
“On March 12, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) had a fire commence within its principal laundry compartments,” the command declared in an official release. “The fire’s genesis was not combat-linked, and it is now confined.”
The US Navy affirmed that the aircraft carrier continues to be fully functional, with its crucial propulsion mechanisms unscathed. “No harm occurred to the vessel’s propulsion system, and the aircraft carrier maintains full operability,” the communiqué further specified.
During the occurrence, two mariners sustained injuries and are currently undergoing medical care, though their ailments are not considered grave.
“Currently, two personnel are undergoing medical attention for injuries not posing a threat to life and their state is stable,” the command announced.
The USS Gerald R. Ford is presently stationed in the Red Sea as a component of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, which provides aid to Operation Epic Fury within the area. Authorities indicated that additional details would be disclosed once accessible.
This craft serves as the vanguard of the Ford-class aircraft carriers and ranks among the grandest naval vessels ever constructed. With a displacement of approximately 100,000 metric tons, this nuclear-propelled carrier extends beyond 330 meters in length and is capable of transporting in excess of 75 aircraft. Driven by a pair of A1B nuclear reactors powering four propeller shafts, the vessel is able to surpass speeds of 30 knots and function for nearly 25 years prior to requiring additional fuel.
The ship’s complement and its aviation component collectively comprise over 4,500 individuals. Its protective armaments encompass ESSM and RAM anti-air missiles, Phalanx point-defense weapon systems, and 25 mm cannons, in addition to sophisticated radar arrays like the AN/SPY-3 multi-purpose radar.