USS Gerald R. Ford Aircraft Carrier Strike Group to Return Home After Deployment to Eastern Mediterranean
The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier strike group is set to head back to its home port in Norfolk, Virginia, after being deployed to the Eastern Mediterranean in response to the invasion of Israel by Hamas-led terrorists on October 7. The strike group, consisting of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, eight attack and support aircraft squadrons, the USS Normandy cruiser, and several missile destroyers, was deployed to be within striking distance of Israel.
Officials from the US Navy’s 6th Fleet have announced the redeployment of the fleet to its home port, where it will make necessary preparations for future deployments. Despite the USS Ford strike group’s return, the Department of Defense will maintain a strong presence in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, continuously evaluating force posture worldwide.
While the USS Ford heads home, the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group, additional cruisers and destroyers including the USS Bataan and USS Carter Hall, and the USS Mesa Verde and the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit will remain in the area. This decision is made in light of ongoing concerns over the escalating conflict between Israel and Hamas, as well as the continued attacks by Houthi rebels in Yemen.
During its time in the Eastern Mediterranean, the USS Ford and its accompanying ships played a crucial role in intercepting incoming ballistic missiles and attack drones launched by Houthi rebels in Yemen. These proactive measures were taken to ensure the safety and security of not only military assets but also commercial ships in the region.
In recent developments, the US military successfully shot down two anti-ship ballistic missiles and promptly responded to a distress call from a Maersk container ship in the Red Sea. Additionally, four Houthi boats that fired at the same vessel were neutralized by US forces, resulting in no damage to personnel or equipment.
The attacks on commercial ships have had significant consequences, with companies suspending voyages through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait as a precautionary measure. This strategic waterway connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden and is a critical maritime route for international trade.
As military presence continues in the region to counter Houthi attacks and protect vital shipping routes, the situation remains tense. The return of the USS Ford strike group to its home port emphasizes the ongoing commitment of the US military to safeguarding its interests and those of its allies in the volatile Middle East and Mediterranean regions.
