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USS Abraham Lincoln (Img: US NAVY)
Washington: The United States Navy is preparing to deploy the aircraft carrier USS George Washington to the Middle East, where it will replace the USS Abraham Lincoln after an unusually prolonged operational deployment. The carrier rotation comes as concerns grow over the physical and mental wellbeing of sailors serving aboard the Lincoln.
According to reports, the planned transition was part of a previously scheduled Navy rotation and was not initiated specifically because of recent concerns surrounding the crew. The USS Lincoln began its deployment in November, but its mission changed after it was redirected toward the Middle East amid rising tensions involving Iran.
The USS Abraham Lincoln has remained at sea for more than 250 days and has reportedly gone around 200 days without a port visit, creating significant challenges for personnel stationed onboard. The extended operational tempo has triggered concerns among lawmakers regarding sailors’ working conditions and access to basic facilities.
Reports highlighted complaints involving supply shortages, water quality issues, maintenance problems, disrupted mail services and increasing mental health challenges among crew members. Concerns have also been raised over incidents involving sailors attempting self-harm during the lengthy deployment period.
US lawmakers have urged the Department of Defense to review conditions aboard the carrier and ensure adequate support for deployed personnel. Senator Richard Blumenthal has called attention to reports of deteriorating conditions, while other representatives have demanded greater transparency from military officials.
Officials have maintained that the USS George Washington’s deployment is part of routine carrier scheduling. The vessel, currently based in Japan, has recently been operating in the Pacific region and moved through the Strait of Malacca with guided missile destroyers.
The upcoming carrier swap highlights the challenges faced by naval forces operating under prolonged deployment cycles amid increasing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
