JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska (May 3, 2022) - U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster IIIs assigned to the 517th Airlift Squadron prepare for launch during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-1 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, May 3, 2022. RF-A is designed to provide realistic training in a simulated combat environment. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Shelimar Rivera Rosado) 220503-F-YB356-1030

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EAST CHINA SEA (March 16, 2022) Sailors aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114) receive a pallet of supplies from Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE-9) during a replenishment-at-sea. Ralph Johnson is assigned to Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Oblander)

EAST CHINA SEA (April 24, 2021) Cryptologic Technical Technician 2nd Class Brandon Gibson, from Sacramento, Calif. and Cryptologic Technical Technician 3rd Class Isais Zepeda, from Anthony, N.M., stand the Electronic Warfare Supervisor watch aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) during routine operations. Barry is assigned to Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Justin Stack)

TAIWAN STRAIT (June 4, 2020) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59) transits the Taiwan Strait. Russell is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Lynch)

EAST CHINA SEA (June 26, 2022) Sailors heave a line aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) during a replenishment-at-sea with Lewis and Clark-class dry-cargo ship USNS Cesar Chavez (T-AKE-14). Dewey is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy's largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th fleet's principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Oblander)

CATC CAMP FUJI, SHIZUOKA, Japan (March 9, 2021) - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Soldier assigned to the 1st Airborne Brigade descend from a U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron over Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, March 9, 2021, during Airborne 21 exercise. Airborne 21 was the largest U.S.- Japan airborne operation in history; involving approximately 600 JGSDF paratroopers, 12 C-130s' aircraft and 130 containment delivery system bundles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Yasuo Osakabe) 210309-F-PM645-1639

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JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska (June 3, 2023) - A Japan Air Self Defense Force (JASDF) E-767 Airborne Warning and Control System assigned to the 602nd Airborne Air Control Squadron, Hamamatsu Air Base, Japan, arrives at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER), Alaska, to participate in RED FLAG-Alaska 23-2, June 3, 2023. RF-A serves as an ideal platform for international engagement and enables all involved to exchange tactics, techniques, and procedures while improving interoperability. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Julia Lebens) 230603-F-RJ686-1053

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OKINAWA, Japan (Jan. 18, 2021) Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Oden Rogers, from Spicer, Minn., directs the movement of a Marine M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System, assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, on the well deck of amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). New Orleans, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelby Sanders)

TAIWAN STRAIT (Oct. 14, 2020) Lt. j.g. Benjamin Pershall scans the horizon while standing watch aboard the Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) during routine operations in the Indo-Pacific region U.S. Navy cruisers and destroyers fulfill critical roles to forward-deployed naval forces, carrier strike groups, and regional partners and allies in supporting the security and the right of all nations to trade, to communicate, and to choose their destiny in a free and open Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Molly M. Crawford/Released)

SINGAPORE STRAIT (Sept. 20, 2021) - The U.S. Coast Guard Legend-class cutter USCGC Munro (WMSL 755) steams in formation with Indonesia Coast Guard Vessel KN Pulau Dana during a maritime engagement with the Indonesia Coast Guard in the Singapore Straight, Sept. 20, 2021. Coast Guard Cutter Munro is currently deployed in the western Pacific Ocean to strengthen alliances and partnerships, and improve maritime governance and security in the region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Kevin G. Rivas) 210920-M-GH531-108

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PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 26, 2020) The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) transits the Philippine Sea to maintain stability in the region. America, flagship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, assigned to Amphibious Squadron Eleven, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Matthew Cavenaile)

SASEBO, Japan (Aug. 9, 2020) Landing craft, air cushion 30, assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7, prepares to enter the well deck of the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42) as the ship conducts amphibious operations. Germantown, part of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, is operating in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serves as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Taylor DiMartino)

EAST CHINA SEA (Sept. 20, 2021) Sailors aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52) man the rails during a replenishment-at-sea with Henry J. Kaiser class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199). Barry is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin Stack)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 24, 2020) As seen from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42), an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter from the “Archangels” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, Detachment 6, prepares to transport stores from the fleet replenishment oiler USNS John Ericsson (T-AO 194) to Germantown during a replenishment-at-sea, as the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18), left, and the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) sail behind Ericsson. Germantown, part of Expeditionary Strike Group Seven (ESG 7), along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Taylor DiMartino)

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Nov. 14, 2020) Sailors man the rails as the Navy’s only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), returns to Yokosuka, Japan, following a six-month deployment. During Ronald Reagan’s deployment, the ship transited nearly 60,000 nautical miles, conducting dual-carrier operations with USS Nimitz (CVN 68) Carrier Strike Group, exercise Valiant Shield, Exercise Keen Sword, Expeditionary Strike Force operations with USS America (LHA 6), flight operations in the Indian Ocean for the first time in more than four years, as well as trilateral integrated operations with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Royal Australian Navy. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Taylor DiMartino)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 27, 2021) Amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18), amphibious landing dock ship USS Ashland (LSD 48), a landing craft air cushion assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7 and Palau Bureau of Maritime Security patrol boat PSS President H.I. Remeliik II patrol the Philippine Sea in formation. New Orleans and Ashland, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, are operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelby Sanders)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 27, 2020) As seen from Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) 10, assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7, currently attached to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42), LCAC 9 conducts amphibious operations in the Philippine Sea. Germantown, part of Expeditionary Strike Group Seven 7, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Taylor DiMartino)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 10, 2021) Aviation Support Equipment Technician 2nd Class Kirk Coco, left, from New Orleans, and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Aircraft Handling) Airman Tony Holland, from Dallas, direct vertical replenishment operations on the flight deck of amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) during a replenishment-at-sea with dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Alan Shepard (T-AKE 3). New Orleans, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelby Sanders)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 4, 2021) Sailors place chocks and chains on an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12 (HSC 12) "Golden Falcons" on the flight deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). New Orleans, part of Amphibious Squadron 11 (CPR 11), along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelby Sanders)

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 2, 2021) Sonar Technician (Surface) Seaman Alexis Ennis, from Ada, Ohio, participates in color guard practice aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65). Benfold is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Deanna Gonzales)

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 12th Marines establish temporary firing positions during Artillery Relocation Training Program 22.4 at the Yausubetsu Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Feb. 1, 2023. The skills developed at ARTP increase the proficiency and readiness of the only permanently forward-deployed artillery unit in the Marine Corps, enabling them to provide precision indirect fires. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Jaylen Davis.)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 11, 2021) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Joshua Ott, from Houston, assigned to amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), conducts flight operations with an F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

EAST CHINA SEA (Oct. 26, 2021) Operations Specialist 2nd Class Jason Kostem, from Jacksonville, Florida, conducts photography collection during a team training session aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105). Dewey is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin Stack)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 1, 2021) Quartermaster Seaman Dade Geier, from Sidney, Ohio, prepares a position report in the pilot house aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Barry (DDG 52). Barry is deployed supporting Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin Stack)

PHILLIPINE SEA (Aug. 16, 2020) Sailors assigned to the Archangels of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25 Detachment 6, load missiles onto an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, on the flight deck of the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), in preparation for a live-fire exercise. America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to maintain security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Matthew Cavenaile)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Nov. 16, 2021) Airman Apprentice Cassandra Flores, left, from Bakersfield, California, and Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) Airman Shelby Mann, from Udall, Kansas, both assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), signal a CV-22B Osprey from the U.S. Air Force 21st Special Operations Squadron to land on the ship’s flight deck. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, is operating in U.S. 7th Fleet to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan D. Berlier)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 6, 2021) Aviation Boatswain’s Mate 2nd Class Robert Wynn, from Apopka, Florida, assigned to forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), signals a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) to hover above the flight deck for a fast rope exercise. America, flagship of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, along with the 31st MEU, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan D. Berlier)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 28, 2021) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) sails in formation with the Republic of Singapore Formidable-class frigate RSS Tenacious (FFC 71) during Pacific Griffin 2021. Pacific Griffin is considered the most complex and warfare-centric bilateral engagement between both navies and represents a continued investment in the strengthening of the solid partnership between the U.S. and Republic of Singapore. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deanna Gonzales)

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Nov. 10, 2022) - The forward-deployed Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) returns to Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Nov. 10 after completing a successful six-month deployment. Higgins is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Donavan K. Patubo) 221110-N-HP061-0029

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EAST CHINA SEA (March 16, 2022) Seaman Chelsea Lockwood, from Prescott, Arizona, signals to Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE-9) during a replenishment-at-sea aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ralph Johnson (DDG 114). Ralph Johnson is assigned to Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Oblander)

YELLOW SEA (May 23, 2022) Lt. Donald Bowers, from Houston, types an email while standing watch in the Combat Information Center aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105). Dewey is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Oblander)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 10, 2020) Sailors conducting a visit, board, search and seizure exercise in a rigid-hull inflatable boat from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42), right, depart from Landing Craft, Utility 1666, assigned to Naval Beach Unit 7, which simulates a vessel of interest. Germantown, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group assigned to Amphibious Squadron 11, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Taylor DiMartino)

LUZON STRAIT (Sept. 5, 2020) - Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Alex Sagastume, from Pearson, Ga., signals for passengers to board an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter from the “Archangels” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, Detachment 6, on the flight deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). New Orleans, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group assigned to Amphibious Squadron 11, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelby Sanders)

PHILIPPINE SEA (July 2, 2022) Gas Turbine Systems Technician (Mechanical) Fireman Devin Ellis, from Converse, Texas, climbs a ladder well during a firefighting drill aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105). Dewey is assigned to Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Samantha Oblander)

SASEBO, Japan (Oct. 27, 2020) A hose team attacks a mock fire during a Federal Fire integrated firefighting drill aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). The fire drill integrates fire fighters from Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo Federal Firefighters with Sailors aboard the ship to train on fighting in-port fires. New Orleans, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelby Sanders)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 21, 2021)

Mineman Seaman Francisco Vera, from Tracy, California, repairs lines aboard Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18), during routine operations. Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment in U.S. 7th Fleet to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan M. Breeden)

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 6, 2020) Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) conduct flight quarters with Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), Force Reconnaissance Platoon during a visit, board, search and seizure exercise. America, flagship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, assigned to Amphibious Squadron Eleven, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Vincent E. Zline)

CORAL SEA (July 21, 2021) Three F-35B Lightning fighter aircraft from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit fly in formation above the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during Exercise Talisman Sabre 21. Talisman Sabre 21, the ninth iteration and conducted since 2005, occurs biennially across Northern Australia. Australian, U.S. and other multinational partner forces use Talisman Sabre to enhance interoperability by training in complex, multi-domain operations scenarios that address the full range of Indo-Pacific security concerts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jonathan D. Berlier)

EAST CHINA SEA (Nov. 5, 2021) Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105) conducts flight operations with an MH-60R Sea Hawk, assigned to the “Warlords” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51. Dewey is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin Stack)

TPHILIPPINE SEA (March 19, 2021) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) conducts a replenishment-at-sea with the Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10). Benfold is assigned to Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deanna Gonzales)

EAST CHINA SEA (Nov. 6, 2021) Aviation Machinist Mate 2nd Class Sirkaylon Morgan, from Dallas, conducts maintenance on an MH-60R Sea Hawk, assigned to the “Warlords” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 51, aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105). Dewey is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin Stack)

EAST CHINA SEA (Oct. 20, 2021) Fire Controlman 2nd Class Eric Jordan, from Twenty-Nine Palms, California, sweeps the aft missile-deck during a fresh water wash-down aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Dewey (DDG 105). Dewey is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Justin Stack)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 20, 2021) Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 2nd Class Gabriel Lorico, left, from Sacramento, Calif., and Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) 3rd Class Alapati Tautai, from Nu'uuli, American Samoa, fire a 50-cal machine gun during a live-fire gunnery training exercise aboard amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). New Orleans, part of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelby Sanders)

PHILIPPINE SEA (Oct. 7, 2020) Aviation Ordinanceman Airman Ramon Garcia, from Fairfield, Calif., simulates electrically isolating a space during a damage control drill aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Germantown (LSD 42). Germantown, part of Expeditionary Strike Group 7, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Taylor DiMartino)

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (Oct. 19, 2022) - U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Seth Martinez, 374th Security Forces Squadron patrolman, engages targets during a combined arms attack exercise for Exercise Guard and Protect at Yokota Air Base, Japan, Oct. 19, 2022. Exercise Guard and Protect is an annual exercise designed to enhance the relationship between Japanese and U.S. forces in the Pacific region, as well as to improve the interoperability between the Japan Ground Self Defense Force and the USAF security forces. (U.S. Air Force photo by Yasuo Osakabe) 221019-F-PM645-0006

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PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 25, 2020) The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) transits the Philippine Sea. America, flagship of Expeditionary Strike Group Seven, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Matthew Cavenaile)

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 28, 2021) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) sails in formation with Lewis and Clark class dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE 6), Republic of Singapore Formidable-class frigate RSS Stalwart (FFC 72) and Republic of Singapore Independence-class littoral mission vessel RSS Fearless (LMV 22) during Pacific Griffin 2021. Pacific Griffin is considered the most complex and warfare-centric bilateral engagement between both navies and represents a continued investment in the strengthening of the solid partnership between the U.S. and Republic of Singapore. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Deanna Gonzales)

OKINAWA, Japan (Jan. 15, 2021) Aviation Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Lance Boruszewski, from Saginaw, Mich., assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25, performs maintenance on a MH-60S Sea Hawk on the flight deck aboard USS America (LHA 6). America, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, serving as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Kelsey Culbertson)

DARWIN, Australia (Sept. 1, 2022) – A U.S. Airman from the 67th Aircraft Maintenance Unit prepares an F-15C Eagle for take off during Exercise Pitch Black 2022 at Royal Australian Air Force Base Darwin, Australia, Sept. 1, 2022. PB22 is the latest in long standing, multilateral exercises designed to enhance participating countries’ air operations. This year, 17 nations are participating in PB22, and is scheduled from Aug. 19 to Sept. 8, 2022. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Savannah L. Waters)

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SEA OF JAPAN (Aug. 12, 2020) Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Ellysan Roe, left, from Chicago, collects a nasal swab sample from Operations Specialist 2nd Class Alec Cervana, from Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif., for COVID-19 testing aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). New Orleans, part of the America Expeditionary Strike Group, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners, and serves as a ready response force to defend security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kelby Sanders)