The Pentagon is sending the Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier from the Caribbean to the Middle East, joining the Abraham Lincoln carrier due to rising tensions with Iran. The Gerald R. Ford, the newest and largest U. S. carrier, has been operating in the Caribbean and participated in operations in Venezuela earlier this year. One official indicated that it will take about a week to arrive in the Middle East. The United States previously had two carriers in the area during strikes against Iranian nuclear sites last year.
With only 11 aircraft carriers in the U. S. military, they are a limited resource and typically have predetermined schedules. U. S. Southern Command stated it will continue to focus on addressing illicit activities in Latin America. President Trump mentioned he was considering sending another carrier to the region if no deal is reached with Iran, indicating that an agreement might be achievable within a month.
The Ford has been deployed since June 2025 and was originally intended for Europe before being relocated to the Caribbean. Carrier deployments usually last nine months but may be extended during periods of high military activity. The Ford can carry over 75 military aircraft, including F-18 Super Hornets, and features advanced radar for air traffic and navigation. Its supporting ships also possess various combat capabilities.
With information from Reuters
