The Return of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group: A Historic Deployment

On December 20, 2024, the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group (ABECSG) returned to San Diego, concluding a remarkable five-month deployment that spanned two critical regions: the Indo-Pacific and the Middle East.

This mission, marked by a series of historic firsts, showcased the versatility and strategic importance of the Abraham Lincoln and its accompanying strike group.

The deployment not only reinforced America’s military strength in vital regions but also highlighted the evolving role of carrier strike groups in modern warfare.

A Mission Redefined: From the Indo-Pacific to the Middle East

Initially departing San Diego on July 11, 2024, for a planned Indo-Pacific deployment, the Abraham Lincoln’s mission was abruptly redefined as tensions escalated in the Middle East.

The carrier strike group was redeployed to the US 5th Fleet’s area of responsibility in response to growing threats against Israel from Iran and its proxies, including Hezbollah and Yemen-based Houthis.

This shift underscored the flexibility and rapid response capability of the US Navy, a critical asset in addressing global threats.

The redeployment was part of a broader strategy to strengthen the US military posture in the region. Beyond deterring potential attacks on Israel, the strike group’s presence aimed to degrade the operational capabilities of the Houthis, who had been targeting international military and commercial vessels in the region’s critical waterways.

The Abraham Lincoln’s role in securing these maritime zones was a key component of its mission.

Historic Firsts and Tactical Innovations

During its deployment, the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group achieved several historic milestones, cementing its place in naval history.

Among the most significant was the combat debut of the F-35C Lightning II aircraft.

Operating from the carrier’s deck, the F-35C conducted airstrikes against Houthi targets, demonstrating its advanced stealth and combat capabilities. This marked the final combat debut of the Lightning II series, following the A and B variants.

Another groundbreaking achievement was the first combat deployment of the ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer (NGJ) aboard the EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft. This advanced jammer represents a generational leap in electronic warfare, offering enhanced capabilities to counter and neutralize enemy systems.

The successful use of the NGJ during this deployment highlights the increasing importance of electronic warfare in modern military operations.

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group also became the first Nimitz-class strike group to refuel at sea using a commercial tanker.

After the Navy’s refueler, the USNS Big Horn, sustained damage, the Overseas Mykonos stepped in to provide essential fuel to the strike group’s support ships and aircraft. This logistical innovation ensured uninterrupted operations during extended missions.

Strengthening Alliances and Regional Presence

In addition to its operational achievements, the Abraham Lincoln played a key role in strengthening US alliances and partnerships.

During its time in the Indo-Pacific, the strike group conducted the first-ever Multi-Large Deck Event (MLDE) with the Italian Navy’s Cavour Carrier Strike Group. This joint exercise involved more than 7,500 sailors and marines, enhancing maritime communication, air warfare operations, and combat readiness.

The Abraham Lincoln also became the first US aircraft carrier to visit Malaysia in over 12 years, fostering critical regional partnerships.

This visit, which followed the “Fat Leonard” scandal that had strained US-Malaysia relations, symbolized a renewed commitment to collaboration in Southeast Asia.

Expanding the Role of Carrier Strike Groups

The Abraham Lincoln’s deployment demonstrated the expanding role of carrier strike groups in addressing complex, multi-theater challenges.

Over the course of five months, the strike group logged over 78,000 nautical miles, completed 9,000 sorties, and visited key ports in Egypt, Guam, Malaysia, Pakistan, Saipan, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.

These accomplishments underscore the strategic importance of carrier strike groups as platforms for force projection and diplomacy.

Implications for Modern Naval Warfare

The historic achievements of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group highlight the evolving nature of naval warfare. With advanced aircraft like the F-35C and cutting-edge technologies such as the ALQ-249 jammer, carrier strike groups are becoming increasingly versatile and capable of addressing a wide range of threats.

This deployment also reinforced the importance of logistical adaptability, as demonstrated by the innovative use of commercial tankers for refueling operations.

From a strategic perspective, the Abraham Lincoln’s deployment underscores the US Navy’s commitment to maintaining stability in key regions.

In the Indo-Pacific, the carrier strike group’s presence strengthened alliances and countered potential adversaries. In the Middle East, it served as a deterrent against hostile actions, ensuring the security of critical maritime routes.

A Legacy of Excellence

As the USS Abraham Lincoln returns home, its five-month deployment stands as a testament to the skill and dedication of the sailors and marines who served aboard.

Capt. Pete Riebe, commanding officer of the Abraham Lincoln, commended the crew’s unwavering commitment to excellence, particularly in the face of uncertainty and operational challenges. Their efforts not only secured vital interests but also set new benchmarks for naval operations.

“I could not be more proud of this team. Our Sailors and Marines performed superbly across every mission assigned,” said Riebe in a statement.

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group’s historic deployment serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring role of carrier strike groups in global security.

As the US Navy continues to adapt to evolving threats, the lessons learned from this mission will undoubtedly shape the future of naval warfare and reinforce the importance of maintaining a strong, agile, and forward-deployed force.