How Much Is the USS Lincoln Costing as Congress Probes 9-Month Deployment?
Summary
The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier has been on deployment for nine months, much longer than planned, due to ongoing military operations near Iran. This extended mission has cost nearly $1.5 billion and raised concerns about the health and well-being of its more than 5,000 crew members. Lawmakers are asking for more information about the ship’s conditions and the impact of the long deployment.Key Facts
- The USS Abraham Lincoln left San Diego in November and has spent 269 days at sea, with 200 days in a combat zone.
- The deployment was expected to last until May but was extended because of military needs in the Arabian Sea during tensions with Iran.
- Operating the ship and its air wing costs about $5.5 million per day, totaling nearly $1.5 billion for the deployment so far.
- Costs could rise to $12 million daily during active conflict situations.
- The crew of over 5,000 receive extra pay, including family separation allowance ($250/month), sea pay (around $400/month), and danger pay ($225/month).
- Recent reports mention supply shortages, plumbing problems, and mental health concerns on the ship, though the Navy says there have been no increases in suicide attempts.
- The USS George Washington is expected to replace the Lincoln soon, but details on the timing and crew rotation are not yet confirmed.
- Experts warn of long-term consequences from this deployment, including deferred maintenance and lowered morale, which could affect future missions.
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