The United States Navy announced on Monday that the USS Gerald R. Ford, dispatched to the eastern Mediterranean in the wake of the October attack on Israel by Hamas, will be returning to the United States “in the coming days.” The aircraft carrier was initially deployed to contribute to regional deterrence and defense posture.
According to the Navy’s statement, the carrier is set to “redeploy to its home port as scheduled to prepare for future deployments.” The Department of Defense emphasized its commitment to evaluating force posture globally and maintaining extensive capabilities in the Mediterranean and the broader Middle East.
The Navy highlighted ongoing collaboration with allies and partners to enhance maritime security in the region. While the USS Gerald R. Ford concludes its current mission, the Defense Department intends to leverage the presence of forces like the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower carrier strike group to deter any potential escalation of crises beyond Gaza by state or non-state actors.
As a next-generation aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford boasts a 100,000-ton nuclear-powered design and incorporates advanced technologies. Following the deadly attack by Hamas on Israel on October 7, the United States promptly provided military support to Israel and reinforced its forces in the region, which included deploying the USS Gerald R. Ford along with other warships.
