USS Gerald R. Ford passes through Strait of Gibraltar

The video above is from our previous coverage of the Gerald R. Ford deploying on June 24, 2025

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group passed through the Strait of Gibraltar Saturday as part of their scheduled deployment to the U.S. European Command area of responsibility.

“This operational activity in the Strait of Gibraltar shows the solid commitment of Spain as a strong Ally in a key access point to the Mediterranean Sea,” said Cmdr. J. David Garcia, commanding officer of Canarias. “Both the U.S. Navy and the Spanish Navy are used to working together.”

The strike group, comprised of nearly 4,500 sailors, departed from Naval Station Norfolk nearly a month ago on June 24, 2025.

This deployment comes as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East between Israel and Iran, along with the continuing conflict in Palestine. As such, developments there could end up shifting the course of the carrier group, but Captain David Skarosi says their mission remains the same.

“Our ship and crew has assumed the watch in U.S. 6th Fleet. Gerald R. Ford’s mission remains clear: maintain freedom of navigation in international waters for all nations,” said Skarosi. “Our Sailors are excited to execute this mission and operate side-by-side with our Allies and partners throughout the region.”