Arabian Sea – The flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) buzzed with activity as F/A-18F Super Hornets and other strike aircraft lined up, taxiing, and launching under bright daylight. Catapult launches sent jets roaring off the bow with afterburners glowing, demonstrating the carrier’s rapid strike capabilities.

As night fell, operations continued with the deck lit by floodlights and aircraft lights. Jets took off in rapid succession, their exhaust plumes trailing against the dark sky, while deck crew in colored jerseys directed movements amid the carrier’s island superstructure. Aircraft recovered via arresting wires and were repositioned for successive waves, highlighting continuous round-the-clock activity.

Released on March 16, 2026, the footage counters Iranian claims that the Lincoln had been damaged or forced to withdraw after alleged missile or drone attacks. U.S. officials confirmed the carrier strike group remained fully operational, sailing close to Iran while executing air strikes under Operation Epic Fury since late February. No damage was reported to the Lincoln, which continued supporting air operations alongside escort ships including the USS Spruance and USS Michael Murphy.

A spokesperson noted, “USS Abraham Lincoln continues flight operations day and night during Operation Epic Fury. Sailing close to Iran, Lincoln and its embarked carrier air wing are executing back-to-back waves of strikes.”

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