USS George Washington Docks in Da Nang to Strengthen Ties

The USS George Washington, the only forward-deployed nuclear-powered aircraft carrier of the U.S. Navy, arrived in Da Nang, Vietnam, on July 30, 2026. Accompanied by the guided-missile cruiser USS Robert Smalls and destroyer USS Shoup, the strike group brought approximately 5,000 sailors to the city for a scheduled port call. This marks the first U.S. aircraft carrier visit to Vietnam since 2023 and the fourth since the normalization of diplomatic relations in 1995.

The deployment follows recent hostilities in the South China Sea. On July 20, the China Coast Guard injured a Philippine Navy service member, and on July 24, Chinese forces used water cannons against Philippine vessels near Scarborough Shoal. In response to these escalations, Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed that the U.S. would not abandon its allies, while the State Department demanded that China cease its destabilizing conduct.

U.S. Ambassador Jennifer Wicks linked the visit to the 250th anniversary of American independence, noting the event celebrates the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established between the two nations in 2023. While the visit signals growing defense ties, the Government of Vietnam continues to adhere to its "Four No's" policy, avoiding formal military alliances. The port call includes leader engagements, community service projects, and cultural exchanges intended to build trust and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.