U.S. Navy Carrier Positions Reported May 26, 2026

Public tracking showed the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz entering the Caribbean Sea on May 20. Officials said the ship is taking part in exercise Southern Seas and will conduct operations with partner forces around South America. The carrier group includes only one destroyer escort and lacks a full air wing. Officials stated the reduced force is not configured for major combat operations.

The carrier USS George Washington left its base in Yokosuka, Japan, on May 23. Public tracking data indicated the destroyer USS Shoup and cruiser USS Robert Smalls also departed and are expected to accompany the carrier. A spokesperson described the movement as routine operations to maintain readiness.

The departure occurred during a reported increase in Chinese naval activity near the first island chain.

Satellite imagery reviewed by observers confirmed the location. The Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group stayed in the Caribbean. The group supported transport of a U.S. Southern Command official to Caracas, Venezuela, over the weekend for meetings and an exercise observation.