Everett aircraft carrier joining aid effort

The Everett-based aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is headed to the Indian Ocean to help with tsunami-relief efforts.

The Lincoln left Hong Kong Monday with its four support ships, including the Everett-based destroyer USS Shoup, and is expected to arrive in the South China Sea within the next two days.

Traveling to the region from Guam is the five-ship amphibious USS Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group.

Together, the Lincoln and Bonhomme Richard groups carry a number of types of air support, including helicopters that can be used for search-and-rescue missions, reconnaissance or transport of medical supplies; food, and other equipment, said Maj. Guillermo Canedo, a spokesman for the Navy's Pacific Command.

Both also can provide limited medical assistance.

The ships have water-treatment systems that can produce about 50,000 gallons of drinking water daily.

"Water is an immediate need that we'll be addressing," he said.

It's not known exactly where the Lincoln will go or what assistance it will provide, regional Navy spokesman Rick Huling said. The carrier and its support ships will remain in the area until no longer needed, officials said.

Times Snohomish County bureau reporter Emily Heffter contributed to this report. Christopher Schwarzen: 425-783-0577