According to the US Navy, the incident happened aboard the USS Gerald R Ford, currently operating in the Red Sea as part of military operations linked to the conflict with Iran. Officials said a fire broke out inside the ship but it was quickly controlled by the crew.
"Two sailors are currently receiving medical treatment for non-life-threatening injuries and are in stable condition," a statement from US Naval Forces Central Command said.
The Navy explained that the fire started in the ship’s main laundry area. Authorities stressed that the incident was not related to combat and was successfully contained before it could cause major damage.
Despite the fire, officials confirmed that there was no damage to the aircraft carrier’s propulsion system. "There is no damage to the ship's propulsion plant, and the aircraft carrier remains fully operational," the statement said.
The massive nuclear powered vessel is currently deployed in the Red Sea as part of Operation Epic Fury, the name given to the large scale US military strikes on Iran launched by President Donald Trump on February 28.
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The USS Gerald R Ford, the newest and largest aircraft carrier in the US Navy fleet, has already faced several technical problems during its long deployment. US media previously reported issues with the ship’s toilets, which experienced repeated blockages due to misuse by sailors.
The carrier has been operating for months across several regions, including the Caribbean and the Middle East, making it one of the longest deployments for a US warship. The extended mission has placed heavy pressure on both the vessel and its crew.
Military officials say the situation is now under control and the carrier continues its operations in the region without interruption.
The fire did not damage the warship, but it shows how difficult long military deployments can be. Even small incidents on such huge ships can create serious risks. The incident may also raise questions about the pressure on crews during extended war missions.
