'Predictable risks': Two more US senators call for independant probe into naval warship conditions

Two U.S. senators are demanding an independent review of living conditions and deployment practices aboard naval ships, citing concerns about the Pentagon's transparency. Senators Patty Murray and Christopher A. Coons sent a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao, calling for an investigation into the extended deployments of the USS Gerald R. Ford, USS Abraham Lincoln, and USS Benfold.

The senators stated that the U.S. Department of Defense has been unable to provide full and accurate information to congressional defense committees. They proposed that senior civilian executives and former military officers should lead the independent review. This review should also offer recommendations to enhance future extended deployments.

Reports have surfaced regarding significant issues on these vessels. The USS Gerald R. Ford experienced a laundry fire that injured two service members and required extensive repairs, leading to an extended deployment of over 300 days at sea. The USS Benfold suffered a multi-day power outage in the South China Sea, impacting essential services like plumbing, meals, and air conditioning. Meanwhile, the USS Abraham Lincoln has faced peak controversy over deteriorating living conditions and declining mental health among its crew.

Murray and Coons highlighted reports of worsening mental health, morale issues, supply shortages for basic necessities, long wait times for meals, and disrupted mail services. "After working long shifts on duty during combat operations, our sailors and Marines should not have to worry about basic day-to-day functions, whether they’ll have a full meal or be able to communicate with their family members," the senators wrote. They argued that the Navy was "inadequately prepared for predictable risks" associated with prolonged deployments.

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After working long shifts on duty during combat operations, our sailors and Marines should not have to worry about basic day-to-day functions, whether they’ll have a full meal or be able to communicate with their family members.