USS George Washington Heading To Middle East As Lincoln Ends Extended Deployment

The U.S. Is deploying the aircraft carrier USS George Washington to the Middle East to relieve the USS Abraham Lincoln, which has completed an extended deployment exceeding 250 days in the region, according to reporting from The Wall Street Journal. The rotation follows a previously scheduled plan.

The Lincoln began deployment in November and was redirected to the Middle East in January to support U.S. Operations against Iran. Its carrier strike group participated in Operation Epic Fury bombing operations and contributed to an American blockade of Iranian ports. The extended deployment has prompted congressional concern about conditions facing sailors.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal wrote to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao regarding "widespread reports of shortages of basic supplies, water contamination, plumbing issues, deteriorating mental health, deck safety concerns, and disruptions in the mail system."

The Lincoln has now spent more than 250 days deployed with 200 consecutive days without a port call, marking a record for sustained time at sea. Sailors have faced food shortages and shortages of items including toothpaste and soap. Rep. Marlin Stutzman said he plans to seek an update from the Pentagon and the administration, stating service members need assurance "that they're getting properly taken care of."

The George Washington, based in Japan, has been operating in the Pacific and recently transited the Strait of Malacca alongside guided-missile destroyers. A U.S. Official noted the carrier rotation had been planned before conditions aboard the Lincoln drew scrutiny. The Navy did not immediately respond to requests for comment on conditions aboard the vessel.