USS Gerald R. Ford Begins Final Leg of its Journey Home
After nearly 11 months at sea supporting operations in the Middle East and Caribbean, the nuclear-powered vessel is expected to return to Norfolk, Virginia, in late May for a historic homecoming and essential maintenance.
The world’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78), passed through the Strait of Gibraltar today, finally beginning the final leg of its journey back to the United States after the longest carrier deployment since the Vietnam War.
The nuclear-powered supercarrier and its strike group were seen transiting westward into the Atlantic Ocean, marking the end of an epic 316-day continuous deployment. The Ford left its home port in Norfolk, Virginia, on June 24, 2025.During its extended mission, the Ford and its air wing played key roles in high-tempo operations across multiple theaters, including major support for U.S. forces in the Middle East amid the ongoing Strait of Hormuz crisis, as well as earlier missions in the Caribbean.
Navy officials described the deployment as “historic” and praised the crew’s endurance. The carrier has now spent nearly 11 months at sea, significantly longer than a typical seven-to-nine-month deployment. The Ford is expected to arrive back in Norfolk in mid-to-late May, where thousands of family members are preparing for an emotional homecoming.
This extended deployment comes as the U.S. Navy continues to manage global commitments with a limited number of carrier strike groups. The safe return of the Ford will allow the Navy to begin much-needed maintenance on the vessel after nearly a year of intense operations.