Aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln extended beyond planned deployment duration

The USS Abraham Lincoln has been at sea for more than 250 days, far longer than its planned seven-month deployment. The ship left San Diego in November 2025 and was sent to the Middle East to support operations against Iran. It has not returned, and the Navy has not announced a return date.

Families say conditions on board have been very difficult. They have reported food shortages, dirty water, mold, and broken toilets. Some sailors reportedly tried to go overboard during the deployment.

Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said reports about conditions were wrong. Senator Richard Blumenthal has asked the Navy to explain why the deployment was extended. The ship went more than 200 days without stopping at any port.