US Navy confirms USS Gerald R. Ford undergoing repairs at Souda Bay Naval Base

The United States has confirmed that its newest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, is undergoing maintenance and repairs at the Souda Bay Naval Base, following recent operations in the Red Sea.

In a statement released by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa / U.S. Sixth Fleet, the Navy confirmed that the carrier arrived at Souda Bay on March 23, 2026, for scheduled maintenance.

“USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) arrived at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay for maintenance and repair following operations in the Red Sea,” the statement said.

Operational Readiness Maintained
The Navy emphasized that the aircraft carrier remains fully mission-capable, noting that the port visit allows for efficient maintenance, resupply, and operational readiness.

The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group continues its deployment overseas, according to the statement.

Background: Fire Incident and Regional Tensions
The development follows earlier reports by Kathimerini, which on March 17 indicated that the carrier would soon dock in Crete.

Previously, the United States Fifth Fleet confirmed that a fire had broken out in the ship’s laundry area on March 12 due to a technical malfunction.

Meanwhile, regional tensions escalated after a statement from Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters warned that the presence of the US carrier near Jeddah could be viewed as a threat, declaring logistical and support hubs in the Red Sea as potential targets.

Reports of Extended Fire Damage
According to The New York Times, the fire reportedly lasted more than 30 hours, with claims that over 600 sailors were affected, forcing some crew members to sleep on floors and tables after damage to sleeping quarters.

Strategic Importance of Souda Bay
The Souda Bay Naval Base is a key strategic hub for US and NATO operations in the Eastern Mediterranean, frequently used for logistics, maintenance, and rapid deployment missions.