US aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford departs from Croatia

The American aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78)  (Photo: HRM)

The world’s largest aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN‑78), has departed the Croatian port city of Split after a five-day visit from 28 March to 2 April, the U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa / U.S. Sixth Fleet confirmed.

A routine investigation into a previously reported fire affecting laundry and berthing areas on the ship remains ongoing.

While in Croatia, the vessel carried out scheduled maintenance and resupply operations to prepare for the next stage of its deployment.

At the same time, the carrier’s crew also had the opportunity to explore Split, with organised tours and activities.

During the stop in Split, senior officers from Carrier Strike Group 12, led by Rear Admiral Paul Lanzilotta, met with the United States Ambassador to Croatia, Nicole McGraw.

The carrier strike group, which includes the flagship Gerald R. Ford along with Carrier Air Wing 8, Destroyer Squadron 2 and the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG‑81), departed Naval Station Norfolk in June 2025.

Since then, the group has conducted operations across several regions, including the Arctic Circle, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and the Red Sea.

Currently deployed within the operational area of the United States Sixth Fleet, the strike group plays a role in maintaining maritime security, deterring aggression and supporting international stability.

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) (Photo: HRM)

According to the U.S. Embassy in Zagreb, the visit to Split highlighted the long-standing partnership between the two countries. The port call also offered an opportunity to reaffirm shared security interests and strengthen cooperation in the region.

US Navy vessels regularly visit Croatian ports for maintenance, joint training activities and shore leave, reflecting the close military ties between the two nations.