SINGAPORE — The US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln sailed past Singapore early on Sunday as it headed home after a grueling deployment in the Middle East. It’s expected to stop in Thailand for a port visit.
Journalists on the Indonesian island of Batam, across the Singapore Strait, spotted the massive vessel as it transited waters near Singapore just after 1 a.m. local time.
The Lincoln, one of the US Navy’s largest warships, was supporting the US war against Iran. Its deployment included a record-setting uninterrupted time at sea of more than 250 days. Concerns have grown about the Lincoln’s lengthy deployment following reports of deteriorating mental health among the crew and shortages of supplies including food and hygiene products.
Thai officials have said the Lincoln will stop in Thailand for rest and recovery before returning to its US base.
The warship is scheduled to arrive at Laem Chabang Port, near Pattaya, on September 2 and remain in Thailand until September 6.
According to a Reuters report, the carrier will be accompanied by two other Navy vessels, with around 5,000 sailors and Marines expected to get some rest after more than 200 days at sea.
For Pattaya, the visit comes at a difficult time for the tourism industry. Local businesses are hoping the large number of US personnel spending time in the city will bring more customers and much-needed revenue.
At the same time, authorities are concerned about possible problems linked to the city’s nightlife.
Thai authorities have increased patrols in areas likely to see large numbers of visiting sailors, including Pattaya Beach, Second Road and the city’s main nightlife areas.
Source: Saudi Gazette