The United States is planning to deploy the aircraft carrier USS George Washington to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln as part of a previously planned rotation, The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday.
The Abraham Lincoln has been at sea for more than 250 days and has not made a port call in roughly 200 days, raising concerns among lawmakers about the conditions facing its sailors, according to the report.
The carrier began its current deployment in November and was redirected to the Middle East in January ahead of the U.S. war with Iran. The Lincoln and its aircraft played a key role in Operation Epic Fury and have since supported the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports.
Lawmakers have warned that the intense operational tempo and prolonged deployment have placed significant strain on the crew. They are seeking additional information from the Pentagon about conditions aboard the carrier.
Senator Richard Blumenthal wrote to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao, citing reports of shortages of basic supplies, contaminated water, plumbing problems, deteriorating mental health, safety concerns on deck and disruptions to the mail system.
“There have been widespread reports of shortages of basic supplies, contaminated water, plumbing issues, deteriorating mental health, safety concerns on deck and disruptions to the postal system,” Blumenthal said in his letter.
Representative Marlin Stutzman said Thursday that he plans to seek an update from the Pentagon and the administration, emphasizing that service members need confidence that they are receiving proper care during extended deployments.
The planned deployment of the George Washington would provide relief to the Abraham Lincoln after months of sustained operations in the Middle East, while maintaining the U.S. Navy’s carrier presence in the region.
