US sends new carrier to West Asia amid reports of sailors jumping overboard USS Lincoln

The United States is set to deploy the aircraft carrier USS George Washington to West Asia, replacing the USS Abraham Lincoln, according to US Navy statements and officials. This move follows mounting concerns over crew morale and living conditions aboard the Lincoln, which has been deployed for over 250 days without interruption.

US officials stated that the carrier swap is part of a planned rotation, not a direct response to the issues on the Lincoln. The George Washington, which recently left Da Nang in Vietnam, is currently en route to the Indian Ocean after passing through the Singapore Strait and Strait of Malacca. Families and lawmakers have expressed alarm over reports of severe burnout, deteriorating living conditions, and multiple sailors attempting to go overboard.

The deployment has raised mental health concerns, with some families reporting suicidal thoughts among sailors. The USS Lincoln, which left San Diego on November 21, has been criticized for supply shortages, water contamination, plumbing issues, safety concerns, and deteriorating mental health. The US Navy has denied these claims, stating that the carrier has access to counselors, clean water, and healthy meals.

The USS George Washington and its accompanying strike group are now moving towards West Asia as the US maintains a significant naval presence in the region amid conflict with Iran and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.