U.S. aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford - the world’s largest warship - anchored off the coast of Split, Croatia for a planned port visit on Tuesday, drawing crowds of residents and tourists who gathered along the city’s waterfront.

The U.S. Embassy in Zagreb said the visit reflected the "enduring friendship and cooperation" between the U.S. and Croatia.

Croatia’s Ministry of Defense emphasised the visit's importance in underscoring the stability of NATO’s collective defense.

It is the second visit to Split and Croatia by the U.S. Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier, following its first port call in June 2023.

While anchored off Split, the Gerald R. Ford will host local officials and key leaders for a reception, the U.S. Navy said in a statement.

The Ford is the first in the Navy’s new class of advanced aircraft carriers, which are designed to carry a wider variety of planes and operate with several hundred fewer sailors.

It sailed for the European theater of command, which includes waters off Israel’s Mediterranean coast in June.

The presence of the aircraft carrier and its accompanying warships gives the U.S. the option of a third carrier group in the Middle East if needed.