Pattaya is preparing to welcome thousands of US sailors and Marines as the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group is expected to visit Thailand next week following an extended deployment in the Middle East.
The three-ship group, carrying around 5,000 personnel, is scheduled to arrive at Laem Chabang port from 2-6 September, according to information provided by Thai authorities.
The Thai Navy said the visit is intended to allow personnel to rest and recuperate and for the ships to receive logistical support. It is not a joint military exercise with Thailand.
Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet said the city is ready to welcome US military personnel seeking to rest and spend time in the resort city after their lengthy deployment.
Pattaya has previously welcomed US military personnel when American warships have visited Thailand’s eastern seaboard, he said, adding that local tourism operators are ready to receive the visitors.
The city will coordinate with Pattaya City Police, municipal officers and other relevant agencies on land and at sea to maintain safety for both tourists and visiting military personnel.
The mayor also expects the visit to provide a boost to local businesses, including restaurants, entertainment venues, transportation and other tourism-related services.
Based on an estimated spending range of 1,000-3,000 baht per person, around 5,000 personnel could generate an estimated 5-15 million baht in local spending if all were able to go ashore and spend money in Pattaya.
The figure is only an initial estimate and would depend on how many personnel are permitted to leave the ships and enter the city, as well as how long they remain in the area.
The USS Abraham Lincoln has reportedly been deployed for more than 200 days with limited opportunities for a full port visit. The upcoming stop in Thailand is expected to provide personnel with an opportunity to rest and replenish supplies before continuing their deployment.
The Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier is expected to arrive with two other vessels as part of the carrier strike group.
