The US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln anchored near Pattaya, Thailand, on Wednesday after months at sea, Reuters reported. The nuclear-powered vessel is scheduled to remain for five days so that its roughly 5,000 sailors and Marines can rest. AFP journalists saw the carrier preparing to enter Laem Chabang port near the coastal city.

The carrier left California in November 2025 for duty, initially assigned to the South China Sea before being redirected toward the Middle East. The change came before US and Israeli attacks on Iran began about six months ago. Reports in the United States have criticised living conditions and mental health concerns aboard the ship during its extended deployment, including reports that some members attempted suicide.

Pattaya has increased security for the visiting personnel. Mayor Poramase Ngampiches said buses would transport sailors between the ship and the city until its planned departure on Sunday. He denied that a recent operation against sex workers was linked to the visit. Personnel have been told to avoid water sports such as jet skis and cannabis use, while being encouraged to visit malls, religious sites and other attractions.