A plan attributed to U.S. officials calls for preparations to deploy the USS George Washington to the Middle East. The aircraft carrier is expected to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln, which has been operating in the region for more than 250 days.
The rotation is planned as part of a previously scheduled military timetable, while the USS Abraham Lincoln is expected to be withdrawn from duty for necessary maintenance.
Families of USS Abraham Lincoln personnel express concern
The changeover plan between the aircraft carriers was prepared before concerns emerged about the living conditions of personnel serving aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. Some families of U.S. Navy personnel voiced dissatisfaction with conditions aboard the ship and the length of the deployment.
In statements made Saturday, the families expressed concern about the living conditions, safety and morale of their relatives aboard the ship deployed to the Middle East.
The USS Abraham Lincoln also took part in attacks against Iran in the Strait of Hormuz. The families' complaints emerged during the aircraft carrier's ninth month of deployment and about five months after reciprocal attacks with Iran began.