U.S. Navy deploys USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier to EUCOM area of responsibility

The carrier strike group deployed as an integrated naval force to support economic prosperity, national security, and defence. Rear Adm. Paul Lanzilotta, commander of Carrier Strike Group Twelve, stated, “Carrier Strike Group Twelve is the most capable, adaptable, and lethal naval mission package in the world.”

“Our force stands prepared and ready to execute sustained, multi-domain operations at sea, wherever and whenever tasked, in support of American security and economic prosperity,” Lanzilotta added. The deployment demonstrates the U.S. Navy’s commitment to regional stability and allied support through global naval presence.

The deployment includes the flagship USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), commanded by Capt. Dave Skarosi, and the nine squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 8, led by Capt. David Dartez. Arleigh Burke-class destroyers assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 2, under Capt. Mark Lawrence, are also part of the strike group.

USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81), homeported at Naval Station Mayport and commanded by Capt. Judson Mallory, is among the deployed destroyers. Capt. Skarosi expressed his pride, stating, “I am beyond proud of the work the warfighters on this ship have put in to prepare for this deployment, and thankful for the families and friends who continue to support them.”

“I have no doubt that this ship and crew will face and overcome any challenges with overwhelming force and fortitude, showcasing the power and lethality of the Ford-class carrier to the world,” Skarosi said. The deployment underscores the strategic capability of the U.S. Navy to deliver sustained operations and force projection.

Guided-missile destroyers included in DESRON 2 are USS Mitscher (DDG 57), USS Mahan (DDG 72), USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), and USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98). USS Forrest Sherman had departed Naval Station Norfolk earlier, on 6 May 2025.

CVW 8’s embarked squadrons aboard Gerald R. Ford include VFA 37 “Ragin’ Bulls,” VFA 213 “Blacklions,” VFA 31 “Tomcatters,” and VFA 87 “Golden Warriors.” Additional squadrons are VAQ 142 “Gray Wolves,” VAW 124 “Bear Aces,” HSC 9 “Tridents,” HSM 70 “Spartans,” and a detachment from VRC 40 “Rawhides.”

The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group enhances American strategic reach and supports global stability. It enables U.S. civilian and military leaders to deter adversaries and uphold national interests through persistent operations at sea.