USS Gerald R Ford fire created serious problems for crew members after a blaze broke out on the US aircraft carrier during its mission in the Middle East.
According to a report by The New York Times, the fire started last week inside the ship’s laundry area. It took more than 30 hours for the crew to fully control the flames.
The USS Gerald R Ford fire forced over 600 sailors to leave their sleeping areas. Many are now resting on floors and tables due to lack of space.
Officials said several crew members suffered smoke inhalation. Two sailors also received treatment for minor injuries.
The fire has also affected daily life onboard. Since the blaze damaged the laundry section, sailors are unable to wash their clothes.
The aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, is carrying around 4,500 personnel including pilots. It was earlier moved from the Mediterranean region as part of US military operations.
The ship later joined missions in the Middle East amid tensions linked to Iran.
US Central Command said the USS Gerald R Ford fire did not damage the ship’s main systems. The carrier remains fully operational and continues flight activities.
However, crew members reported other issues. Plumbing systems onboard are facing frequent breakdowns during the long deployment.
Military experts say long missions put heavy pressure on both ships and sailors. The crew is now close to completing 10 months at sea, which could soon become a record deployment.
Despite the challenges caused by the USS Gerald R Ford fire, the carrier is still conducting round-the-clock operations.
