USS Abraham Lincoln Docks in Thailand After 279-Day Deployment

The USS Abraham Lincoln and two accompanying ships from its carrier strike group are scheduled to dock in eastern Thailand from September 2-6. The visit follows a 279-day deployment that began in San Diego on November 21, including more than 250 consecutive days at sea supporting U.S. military operations and a maritime blockade against Iran in the Middle East.

The Royal Thai Navy and the Thai Ministry of Defence confirmed the stop is a routine port visit for rest, recreation, and resupply, noting that no military exercises will take place. The carrier has been relieved in the Arabian Sea by the USS George Washington.

The extended deployment has sparked controversy following reports of food and hygiene product shortages, as well as deteriorating mental health and risks of self-harm among the 5,000 sailors and Marines. While some have called for congressional investigations, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao dismissed reports of low morale as misrepresentations of the crew's performance. Chief of U.S. Central Command Brad Cooper previously visited the carrier to address reports of crew distress.