The US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln sailed past Singapore early Sunday as it began its journey home following an extended deployment in the Middle East.
The carrier is expected to make a port visit in Thailand as part of a planned stop for rest and recovery before continuing to its US home base.
USS Abraham Lincoln Passes Singapore
The massive aircraft carrier was spotted shortly after 1 a.m. local time by Associated Press journalists on Indonesia’s Batam Island, across the Singapore Strait, as it transited waters near Singapore.
The USS Abraham Lincoln, one of the largest warships in the US Navy, had been deployed in support of Washington’s military campaign against Iran.
Its deployment lasted more than 250 consecutive days at sea, setting a record for uninterrupted time at sea for the carrier.
Concerns Over Crew Conditions
The unusually long deployment has raised concerns about conditions aboard the carrier, particularly following reports of deteriorating mental health among members of the crew.
There have also been reports of shortages of essential supplies, including food and hygiene products, during the lengthy mission.
Thai officials have said the USS Abraham Lincoln is expected to stop in Thailand to allow its crew time for rest and recovery before the carrier resumes its journey to its US base.
The carrier’s return marks the end of one of the most demanding deployments in its operational history, after months of sustained activity in the Middle East.
