ATHENS: USS Gerald R. Ford: In Souda after fire, with 8 detectives taking over investigation. The US aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford headed to Souda after the ship's washing machine was fired, with U.S. authorities carrying out technical checks and investigation of the incident.
The U.S. aircraft carrier "USS Gerald R) arrived at the naval base of Souda. Ford," in order to carry out restoration work and technical checks after the fire that broke out a few days ago inside. The 337-meter-long ship is considered one of the most modern of the U.S. fleet and participated in U.S. operations in the Middle East.
Along with the aircraft carrier, according to the same information, a special team of eight U.S. Navy detectives arrived in Souda, who are taking the investigation into the cause of the fire. Investigators will take statements from officers and crew members, considering both the possibility of technical damage and the sabotage scenario.
At the heart of the survey are about 20 crew people who had access to the area where the fire broke out, and possible incentives are also being considered. Among them is the dissatisfaction that is allegedly in a portion of the crew due to the increased service rates and the long duration of the missions.
The fire occurred on March 12 in the main washing machine area of the ship, where industrial washing machines, dryers and steam and ventilation networks operate, while a large volume of clothing is also kept. According to Reuters, about 100 accommodation places were affected, about 200 crew members needed smoke care and one sailor was taken for hospitalisation.
Before the incident, the USS Gerald R. Ford" had moved from the Caribbean to the Middle East, had made a stop at Souda in late February and then crossed the Suez Canal towards the Red Sea, before now returning to Crete accompanied by destroyers. His presence has already provoked local reactions and new mobilizations are expected in Chania.
The "USS Gerald R. Ford" is the first ship of the eponymous class, with displacement of more than 100,000 tons, the ability to carry more than 75 aircraft and helicopters and technologies such as the EMALS launch system, advanced radars and modern self-defense systems.
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