Details emerge regarding damage to US Navy’s largest warship following a fire

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The New York Times reports that 600 sailors aboard the USS Gerald R. Ford were left without sleeping quarters

Per the New York Times, hundreds of U.S. military personnel on the USS Gerald R. Ford were left without beds following a fire that broke out last week.

U.S. Central Command described the incident as “not combat-related” and stated it caused no damage to the warship’s propulsion systems. The Gerald R. Ford is the largest vessel in the U.S. Navy, carrying over 4,500 sailors and pilots, and is participating in the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran.

On Monday, the newspaper revealed that extinguishing the fire—originating in the ship’s main laundry area—took more than 30 hours. Citing anonymous sources, the report noted that dozens suffered smoke inhalation. Over 600 sailors lost their bunks and have since been sleeping on floors and tables. Many have been unable to do laundry since the incident.

The aircraft carrier was rushed to the Middle East after taking part in the January military incursion in Venezuela that resulted in the abduction of President Nicolas Maduro, and is now entering its tenth month of deployment.

According to the NYT, crew members expected the mission to extend into May. The U.S. Navy typically deploys aircraft carriers for six months before long port calls for maintenance and shore leave.

Previous reporting has noted that the $13 billion lead ship of its class, commissioned in 2017, has been plagued by toilet problems. The Government Accountability Office stated in 2020 that the sewage system—similar to those in commercial aircraft—is undersized and prone to clogging. Acid flushing to remove calcium buildup in narrow pipes costs around $400,000 and can only be done in port.

NPR reported in January that the warship has called for outside help 42 times since 2023, with the frequency increasing over time.