Laem Chabang, Sept. 3 – The USS Abraham Lincoln, a nuclear-powered US aircraft carrier, docked at Laem Chabang port in Thailand on September 2, 2026, after 286 consecutive days at sea, establishing a modern-day record for continuous naval operations. The vessel, carrying roughly 5,000 sailors and Marines, participated in the US naval blockade and combat missions during the Iran war after deploying in November 2025. Typical deployments last six to nine months, yet conflict requirements extended this Carrier Strike Group mission far beyond standard timelines amid reports of onboard challenges.
Accompanied by the USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. and USS Robert Smalls, the Lincoln arrived for a five-day rest and recuperation visit in Thailand, the United States’ only treaty partner in mainland Southeast Asia and a major non-NATO ally. Rear Admiral Robert E. Loughran of Carrier Strike Group 3 described the Laem Chabang arrival as a well-deserved opportunity for the crew to rest and recharge after truly historic accomplishments marked by exceptional professionalism and expertise.
The long-standing US-Thailand military alliance, dating to 1954 and including annual joint exercises, underpins this port call following the record 286 days at sea. Eastern Thailand has welcomed US Navy ships since the Vietnam War period, when the region supported American operations. Crew members proceeded toward Pattaya after docking, with ships displaying rust from prolonged service.
This US aircraft carrier Thailand visit for well-deserved R&R reinforces regional security partnerships while providing essential recovery after an extended Middle East deployment involving F-35 jets and helicopters on the flight deck. Thai officials confirmed the brief stop focuses on rest after the historic continuous days at sea.