The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier has docked in eastern Thailand, marking the end of an extended deployment in the Middle East that included a record-setting period at sea. The carrier, accompanied by other vessels from its strike group, arrived at Laem Chabang port in Chonburi province on Wednesday.
Journalists observed the Lincoln, which carries approximately 5,000 service members, as it entered the port. The destroyer USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. also arrived, docking in the nearby port of Sriracha, while the guided-missile cruiser USS Robert Smalls docked in Map Ta Phut in the neighboring Rayong province.
This stop in Thailand is the Lincoln's first full port visit after 286 days at sea since the deployment began in 2025. The ship had been supporting U.S. operations in the Middle East, including actions against Iran. Its operational period at sea reportedly exceeded 250 uninterrupted days, setting a new record. Concerns had been raised regarding the lengthy deployment, with reports of crew members experiencing deteriorating mental health and shortages of essential supplies such as food and hygiene products.
The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok confirmed the arrival, stating that the visit is for rest and recovery before the ship returns to its U.S. base. Captain Dan Keeler, the commanding officer of the Abraham Lincoln, expressed enthusiasm for the visit, calling it a demonstration of commitment to allies and partners in Thailand and noting it as the first port visit on their historic deployment.
In August, the USS George Washington, which is typically based in Asia, relieved the Abraham Lincoln in the Middle East. Many service members are expected to visit the nearby beach town of Pattaya. Local Thai officials have welcomed the visit, anticipating a boost to the local economy, and have increased security measures to ensure a smooth stay.