Harlan Ullman, a retired senior U.S. Navy officer and president of the strategic consulting firm Killowen Group, stated that the USS Abraham Lincoln, as an extremely complex nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, urgently needs routine maintenance in port. The ship's advanced weapon systems cannot be adequately maintained at sea, and much work can only be done in port. He warned that the longer a deployment like the USS Lincoln's lasts, the more its combat readiness and capabilities are eroded due to the lack of necessary repairs and maintenance. Ullman further pointed out that prolonged wartime deployments also affect the morale of the carrier's crew. He stated that ships face strict operational constraints during missions, and to avoid revealing their positions, crew members' internet and cell phone use will be severely restricted. Furthermore, the provision of basic supplies becomes more difficult. He stated that prolonged combat missions at sea and exposure to attack pressure inevitably impact the morale and mental and physical health of the officers and men. Ullman urged the Trump administration to prioritize naval readiness over political considerations, stating that it is a matter of national interest, not local affairs, and that the government should address and resolve the issue rather than adopt a defensive posture.
