The Mayor of Pattaya is ready to welcome 5,000 US troops visiting Thailand, with an expected economic circulation of over 5–15 million baht.
On 27 August 2026, reporters reported that Pattaya is preparing to welcome US Navy personnel after news that the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln will visit Thailand next week following completion of its mission in the Middle East, potentially generating at least 5–15 million baht in economic circulation.
The USS Abraham Lincoln carries about 5,000 navy and marine personnel, and reports indicate that during this mission, the personnel have not had a full port visit for over 200 days.
The Royal Thai Navy stated that the US aircraft carrier fleet will visit the eastern coast of Thailand for rest and personnel recovery, as well as logistical support, and this is not a joint military exercise with Thailand.
Poramet Ngampichet, Mayor of Pattaya, revealed that Pattaya has had opportunities to welcome US military personnel periodically when warships arrive on the eastern coast, and that local businesses are pleased to welcome personnel for rest after their missions.
Regarding safety, Pattaya will coordinate with Pattaya City Police, municipal officers, and related agencies on land and sea to ensure the safety of tourists and personnel using services in the area.
The Mayor of Pattaya also estimated that if personnel come to rest and spend in Pattaya, it will benefit tourism businesses, restaurants, entertainment venues, transportation, and various service industries, expecting average spending of about 1,000–3,000 baht per person.
Based on approximately 5,000 personnel, the initial economic impact is estimated at about 5–15 million baht if all personnel spend within Pattaya as projected. However, this figure is only an estimate based on the per-person spending cited by the Mayor and depends on the number of personnel permitted to disembark and enter the area.
The USS Abraham Lincoln, carrying about 5,000 navy and marine personnel aboard three ships, is scheduled to dock at Laem Chabang port from 2-6 September 2026.