Why prolonged operations change port-visit plans

Is the Thailand visit new in strategic terms?

It is an adjustment to prolonged operational consequences: crews need a break and ships need work that Diego Garcia cannot provide in the same way.

An operation can last longer or produce effects beyond those originally expected, forcing changes to the pattern of naval activity. Diego Garcia's airfield and support buildings offer little opportunity for a run ashore. A carrier also needs places where its crew can take a break and maintenance such as painting can be arranged. Thailand supplies those port and shore facilities. The change is a response to operational circumstances.