Ford Sets Post-Cold War Carrier Deployment Milestone
The USS Gerald R. Ford has become the record-holder for the longest carrier deployment since the Cold War, at about 295 days as of April 15, 2026, with operations spanning Europe, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. The extended mission—potentially near 11 months—has raised concerns about Norfolk Naval Shipyard maintenance schedules as the ship supports CENTCOM and deterrence in the Mediterranean while awaiting return and maintenance readiness.