In a move that will significantly lower the United States’ immediate naval firepower in a highly volatile region, the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) and her Carrier Strike Group are set to depart the Red Sea in the coming days.

The departure marks the conclusion of a massive operational stint. The strike group has been deployed for over 300 days, far surpassing the record for the longest U.S. aircraft carrier deployment since the Vietnam War. According to multiple U.S. officials who spoke to the Washington Post, the carrier will soon begin its journey back to its homeport at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia.

The withdrawal of the USS Gerald R. Ford – which has been serving as one of three American aircraft carriers operating in the region – represents a notable decrease in U.S. military might in the Middle East. This reduction in forces comes at a highly sensitive time, occurring amidst a fragile ceasefire with Iran and while the United States continues to maintain a naval blockade of Iranian ports.

The Post report indicates that the primary reason for the carrier’s return is the requirement for desperately needed repairs following its grueling 10 months at sea. One official noted that the aircraft carrier is expected to arrive in Virginia around mid-May.

While the Ford’s departure lowers the overall carrier presence in the theater, U.S. naval operations and deterrence efforts are being shifted to other assets. Just last week, the USS George H. W. Bush (CVN-77) arrived in the Middle East, taking up a strategic position near Iran to monitor the delicate security situation.