Aviation Operations and Coordination

Captivating images of air force personnel and naval crew coordinating operations, navigation, and training missions.

Lt. Jinhong Park and Chief Petty Officer Anderson map the location for the flooding drill onboard the USS Dextrous (MCM 13). The USS Dextrous (MCM 13) is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Christopher Trawick, 153d Air Refueling Squadron, 186th Air Refueling Wing, serves as the co-pilot for a mission to refuel F-16 Falcons out of the 100th Fighter Wing, Maxwell Air Force Base, in support of Southern Strike 2022, April 27, 2022. Southern Strike 2022 is a large-scale, joint multinational combat exercise that provides tactical level training for the full spectrum of conflict. It emphasizes air dominance, maritime operations, maritime air support, precision engagement, close air support, command and control, personnel recovery, aero medical evacuation, and combat medical support.

221014-N-WQ732-1558 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 14, 2022) - Quartermaster 3rd Class Tyler Devries monitors the voyage management system in the pilothouse of the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Thomas Hudner (DDG 116) as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group. The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is on its inaugural deployment conducting training and operations alongside NATO allies and partners to enhance integration the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

Lt. Jinhong Park and Chief Petty Officer Anderson map the location for the flooding drill onboard the USS Dextrous (MCM 13). The USS Dextrous (MCM 13) is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

040413-F-3488S-185. Base: Eielson Air Force Base State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220922-N-XN177-1707 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 22, 2022) - Naval Air Crewman (Helicopter) 1st Class Jesse Pedersen, from Black River Falls, Wisconsin, scans the horizon from an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 during a search and rescue (SAR) swimmer training evolution Sept. 22, 2022. HSC-23 is embarked aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7). Tripoli 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 maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

USCGC Hamilton (WMSL 753) crew members navigate from the bridge as they depart from Mayport, Florida, Oct. 8, 2022. Hamilton is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet, to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Air Force Capt. Dustin Weisner, a pilot with the 4th Airlift Squadron, performs pre-flight checks during Exercise Rainier War 22B at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, Oct. 18, 2022. Rainier War is designed to evaluate and exercise Team McChords ability to generate, employ and sustain Rapid Global Mobility into and in support of U.S. Indo-Pacific areas of responsibility.

Belgium Air Component Luitenant Kolonel Dennis Guillaume, a tactical director assigned to NATO E3A Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) out of NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen, Germany, conducts battle management operations on a NATO AWACS during RED FLAG-Alaska 23-1, over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, Oct. 12, 2022. RF-A 23-1 serves as a training opportunity with a concentration on international engagement and joint interoperability, providing NATO AWACS to further their mission of ensuring high readiness forces capable of Alliance objectives.

NAVAL STATION NORFOLK (Aug. 10, 2022) A Sailor assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) uses an alidade as the ship departs Naval Station Norfolk for a scheduled deployment Aug. 10, 2022. George H.W. Bush provides the national command authority flexible, tailorable warfighting capability as the flagship of a carrier strike group that maintains maritime stability and security to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

030401-F-1389C-015. Subject Operation/Series: IRAQI FREEDOM Country: Unknown

230213-N-AT895-4022 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Feb. 13, 2023) U.S. Navy Lt. Travis Lea, from Wapakoneta, Ohio, stands conning officer watch on the bridge of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG) and Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group (MKI ARG), with embarked 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (13th MEU), are conducting combined expeditionary strike force (ESF) operations, demonstrating unique high-end war fighting capability, maritime superiority, power projection and readiness. Operations include integrated training designed to advance interoperability between the two groups while simultaneously demonstrating the U.S. commitment to our alliances and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region. Nimitz is in U.S. 7th Fleet conducting routine operations. 7th Fleet is the U.S. Navy's largest forward-deployed numbered fleet, and routinely interacts and operates with Allies and partners in preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Adam Beaver, the 19th Special Operations Squadron mobility section supervisor, looks out the window of an MC-130H Combat Talon II during its final flight under the 492nd Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida, May 31, 2022. The MC-130H has played a vital role in Air Force Special Operations Command operations, and its highlights include the evacuations of non-combatant Americans and other civilians from conflicts in Liberia in 1996.

PHILIPPINE SEA (Nov. 13, 2019) Operations Specialist 1st Class David Alvarez, from Fresno, Calif., stands watch as an anti-submarine/surface tactical air controller during a maritime strike operation exercise in the combat information center of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) during Annual Exercise (ANNUALEX) 19. Milius is participating in ANNUALEX 19, a bilateral exercise which further develops coordination and interoperability of the premier alliance between the U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.

220417-N-UD000-1014 ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 17, 2022) Lt. Andrew Whelan, assistant navigator assigned to the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), stands lookout on the bridge, April 17, 2022. George H.W. Bush provides the national command authority flexible, tailorable war fighting capability through the carrier strike group that maintains maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Timothy Metz, KC-135 Stratotanker pilot assigned to the 340th Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, points towards a waypoint, at Thumrait Air Base, Oman, May 16, 2022 during exercise Accurate Test 22. U.S. participation in exercises such as this, reassure our coalition and regional partners and allies of our commitment to the security and stability of this region.

Staff Sgt. Christopher Bankston, 816th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron loadmaster, prints out air delivery mission paperwork aboard his C-17 Globemaster III . The C-17 aircrew air delivered cargo which consisted of fuel and other various supplies to a remote Forward Operating Base in Afghanistan. Sergeant Bankston is deployed from the 7th Airlift Squadron, McChord AFB, Wash.

220423-N-JX182-2006 PHILIPPINE SEA (April 23, 2022) Sailors operate a MK 50, 30-millimeter gun weapons system aboard the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Jackson (LCS 6). Jackson, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

220330-N-GF955-1062NAVAL STATION GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba - (March 30, 2022) Lt. Giovanna Rodriguez and Lt. j.g. Collin Long, assigned to the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Billings (LCS 15), man watch stations on the bridge during sea and anchor detail as the ship departs Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba following a brief stop for fuel and provisions, March 30, 2022. Billings is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force Souths mission, which includes counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

SEA OF JAPAN (June 14, 2021) Sailors conduct undersea warfare operations during a routine underway aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115). Rafael Peralta 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.

191107-N-PC620-0084GULF OF OMAN (Nov. 7, 2019) Sonar Technician (Surface) Seaman Zaccheus Washington participates in an anti-submarine warfare exercise in sonar control aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60) during International Maritime Exercise 2019 (IMX 19). The exercise is a multinational engagement involving partners and allies from around the world designed to facilitate the sharing of knowledge and experiences across the full spectrum of defensive maritime operations. IMX 19 serves to demonstrate the global resolve in maintaining regional security and stability, freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce from the Suez Canal south to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait through the Strait of Hormuz to the Northern Arabian Gulf.

120519-N-ZZ999-057 RED SEA (May 19, 2012) Air traffic controller's in the air traffic control center aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), assist in the safe return of aircraft to the ship. Iwo Jima, the flagship of the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group with the embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

030813-M-7837W-010. Base: Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base State: Al Ahmadi Country: Kuwait (KWT) Scene Major Command Shown: VMGR-234

ARABIAN GULF (Sept. 23, 2014) Sailors stand watch on the bridge while Tomahawk cruise missiles are launched aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) to conduct strikes against ISIL targets. Philippine Sea is deployed as part of Carrier Strike Group 2, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brad Yeomans, a boom operator with the 328th Air Refueling Squadron, operates the boom of a KC-135 Stratotanker May 12, 2022 over Northeastern U.S. Before becoming a boom operator, Yeomans was a C-130 Hercules loadmaster for the 914th Air Refueling Wing. In 2017, the 914th ARW changed aircraft from C-130 Hercules to KC-135 Stratotankers.

A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crew chief assigned to the 379th Expeditionary Aircraft Maintenance Squadron hooks up a fuel hose to a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker during a hot pit refuel at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, Jan. 1, 2022. The KC-135 delivers U.S. Air Forces Central a global reach aerial refueling capability to support joint and partner nation aircraft throughout the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility.

British Royal Navy Leading Operator/Maintainer (Underwater) Andrew Ochiltree steers the Broadsword Class Frigate, HMS COVENTRY (F98), as Operator/ Maintainer Paul Edwards keeps a close eye on the other ships in the area. The British ship is in the Persian Gulf in support of the Southwest build-up. Base: Hms Conventry (F 98)

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 24, 2022) Sailors stand watch in the pilot house aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

CDR Ron Raymer, navigator of USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN-73), works on the ship's bridge with a Voyage Management System while underway in the Arabian Sea. The ship is in to the area as part of the Southwest Asia (SWA) build-up of forces in reaction to Iraq's refusal of U.N. sponsored weapon's inspections. Country: Unknown

U.S. Marines with Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron (VMGR) 252 arm an AGM-176 Griffin missile on a KC-130J Hercules near Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, Aug. 30, 2022. VMGR-252 trained in close-air support by using the Harvest Hercules Airborne Weapons Kit. VMGR-252 is a subordinate unit of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, the aviation combat element of II Marine Expeditionary Force.

Senior Airman Bailen Haynie, a hydraulic technician, and Master Sgt. Susan Kay Anderson with the 172nd Maintenance Group, Jackson, Mississippi, verify instrument readings in the cockpit of a C-17 Globemaster III after changing a hydraulic pump at Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii, July 12, 2022. Members of the 183rd Airlift Squadron, 172nd Maintenance Group, and the 186th Air Refueling Wing conducted inflight refueling sorties and other training scenarios to further refine their skills. U.S. Air National Guard photo by Lt. Col. Reagan B. Lauritzen.

220502-N-JX182-1004 SOUTH CHINA SEA (May 2, 2022) Sailors stand watch during a special sea and anchor detail aboard the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Jackson (LCS 6). Jackson, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

Disaster Assistance Response Teams (DART) - Marine Safety Office St. Louis - 26-HK-121-91. Hurricane Katrina

BALTIC SEA (June 11, 2020) Civil service mariners assigned to the Blue Ridge-class command and control ship USS Mount Whitney (LCC 20) stand watch on the ship's bridge while participating in exercise Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2020 in the Baltic Sea, June 11, 2020. BALTOPS is the premier annual maritime-focused exercise in the Baltic Region, marking the 49th year of one of the largest exercises in Northern Europe enhancing flexibility and interoperability among allied and partner nations.

U.S. Air Force Captain Jeremy Gegenhuber, a weapons controller assigned to NATO E3A Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) out of NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen, Germany, conducts battle management operations on a NATO AWACS during RED FLAG-Alaska 23-1, over the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex, Oct. 12, 2022. RF-A 23-1 serves as a training opportunity with a concentration on international engagement and joint interoperability, providing NATO AWACS to further their mission of ensuring high readiness forces capable of Alliance objectives.

Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Reserve George M. Williamson, left, talks with Master Chief Adam Rodgerson, during a visit aboard the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter William Tate, a 175-foot keeper-class coastal buoy tender, on the Delaware River, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, April 13, 2022.

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 29, 2022) Interior Communications Electrician 3rd Class Xavier Solares, from San Diego, uses a sound-powered phone to communicate with Sailors on the flight deck to adjust the lights used for landing aircraft aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Julia Brockman)

220731-N-VJ326-1048 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 31, 2022) - Seaman Devin Manley, from Humble, Texas, stands helm watch on the bridge aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7), July 31, 2022. Tripoli 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 maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

BRUNEI (Nov. 17, 2016) Sailors attached to Patrol Squadron 10 (VP-10) Red Lancers, rehearse operations aboard a P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft in a training mission during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei 2016. CARAT is a series of annual maritime exercises between the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the armed forces of nine partner nations to include Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Timor-Leste.

220806-N-NR343-1014 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Aug. 6, 2022) Ens. Jack Boro, the junior officer of the deck, stands watch aboard the Freedom-class littoral combat ship USS Sioux City (LCS 11) while transiting the Mediterranean Sea, Aug. 6, 2022. Sioux City is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet, to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

010928-N-9868C-003. Base: Uss Kitty Hawk (CV 63)

Disaster Assistance Response Teams (DART) - Marine Safety Office St. Louis - 26-HK-120-140. Hurricane Katrina

020529-F-1460M-006. Base: Incirlik Air Base, Adana Country: Turkey (TUR) Scene Major Command Shown: USAFE

230902-N-NS135-1053 MEDITTERANEAN SEA (Sep. 2, 2023) Quartermaster 1st Class Aaron Urquhart, assigned to Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61), places numbers on a new bullseye, Sep. 2, 2023. Ramage is part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by the U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

060922-N-3729H-022. Base: USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74)

Col. Antanas Matutis, left, commander of the Lithuanian Air Force, and Lt. Col. Brian Radford, right, commander of the 146th Air Refueling Squadron, 171st Air Refueling Wing, Pennsylvania Air National Guard, sit in the KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft pilot simulator March 22, 2023, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania National Guard and Lithuania have partnered through the National Guards State Partnership Program since 1993.

220727-O-LR179-1006-CA PACIFIC OCEAN (July 27, 2022) - Royal Canadian Air Force Joint Force Air Component Commander Brigadier-General Mark Goulden tours the bridge of Royal Canadian Navy frigate HMCS Winnipeg (FFH 338) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022, July 27. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, three submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (Royal Canadian Navy photo by S1 Melissa Gonzalez)

ARABIAN SEA (March 20, 2020) Ensign Alan Cook, from Silverdale, Washington, takes a bearing with an alidade on the bridge of the guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82). Lassen is part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group and is operating in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacic through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points.

Close-up of a pilot sitting in the cockpit of a bomber plane

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jordan Kaminski, a boom operator with the 171st Air Refueling Squadron, Michigan Air National Guard, prepares a KC-135 Stratotanker for a refueling mission on July 27, 2022 at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. The unit employed a week-long increase in flying July 25-29, 2022, that was designed to bring full-time and drill-status guardsmen together for maximum training exposure in a short amount of time.

220126-N-HD110-1085PONCE, Puerto Rico - (Jan. 26, 2022) -- Lt. j.g. Colin Brady stands watch during sea and anchor detail in the pilot house of the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Milwaukee (LCS 5) as the ship departs Ponce, Puerto Rico, after completing a planned maintenance availability (PMAV), Jan. 26, 2022. Milwaukee is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force Souths mission, which includes counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Danielle Baker/Released)

220602-N-DO281-1009 DANISH STRAIGHTS (June 2, 2022) Lt. j.g. Antwan Prince, center, and Lt. j.g. Sebastian Michko monitor the navigation of the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117), June 2, 2022. Paul Ignatius is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet, to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

230313-A-RY768-1003 ARABIAN GULF (March 13, 2023) Mineman 3rd Class Isaac Gomez, third from left, assigned to mine countermeasures ship USS Gladiator (MCM 11), steers the ship in the Arabian Gulf, March 13, 2023. Gladiator is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

040629-F-8466S-001. Base: Luke Air Force Base State: Arizona (AZ) Country: United States Of America (USA) Scene Major Command Shown: AETC

An Special Missions Aviator from the 352d Special Operations Wing reads a flight plan inside a CV-22B Osprey as it flies over Cambridge, England, Nov. 11, 2022. The 352d SOW were conducting a flyover for the annual Veterans Day ceremony at Cambridge American Cemetery and Memorial.

060510-N-4154B-006. Base: USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71)

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 19, 2022) - Capt. Charles Maynard of the Royal Navy, serving as deputy mission commander of Pacific Partnership (PP22), center, observes from the bridge aboard Palau Patrol Ship PPS Kedam during a multilateral search and rescue exercise coordinated with the U.S. Navy, Republic of Palau, U.S. Coast Guard, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Royal Navy in support of PP22 (SAREX). Now in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 20, 2012) Quartermaster 2nd Class Garry Thornton plots the position of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) on a chart during a replenishment at sea (RAS). Wasp conducted a RAS while underway for operations in the Atlantic Ocean.

Bombardier Sheehan, a skyguard Air Defense system operator with the 119th Air Defense Battery, Canadian Armed Forces, watches the radar and targeting screens for hostile forces at McGregor Range, New Mexico during Roving Sands '96, the US military's largest annual joint air defense training exercise. Subject Operation/Series: ROVING SANDS '96 Base: Mcgregor Range State: New Mexico (NM) Country: United States Of America (USA)

020407-N-5961C-005. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Gulf Of Aden

220808-N-SP805-0004 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (August 8, 2022) Lt. j. g. Nicholas Grossi stands watch as navigation evaluator during an inbound sea and anchor transit into Souda Bay, Greece aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98). USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) is the flagship for Standing NATO Maritime Group Two (SNMG2), a multinational integrated task group that projects a constant and visible reminder of the Alliances solidarity and cohesion afloat and provides the Alliance with a continuous maritime capability to perform a wide range of tasks, including exercises and real-world operations in periods of crisis and conflict.

220513-N-BR419-1055 PACIFIC OCEAN (May 13, 2022) Sailors receive ordnance in the hangar bay of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) during a replenishment-at-sea. Dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Amelia Earhart (T-AKE 6) transported cargo to Ronald Reagan via vertical and connected replenishment. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, as well as the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

Disaster Assistance Response Teams (DART) - Marine Safety Office St. Louis - 26-HK-120-144. Hurricane Katrina

060406-N-2385R-083. Base: Naval Hospital, Yokosuka Country: Japan (JPN)

U.S. Navy sailors assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron 4 navigate waters during static and dynamic maritime force protection procedures at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point Navy Boat Docks, North Carolina, May 5, 2022. The exercise was intended to increase the sailors ability to gauge maneuvers of small enemy boats and their understanding of the enemys thought process. The mission of the Navy Boat Docks is to provide support to the air station, its bombing targets, and offer a training environment for Navy and Marine Corps units.

A Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ShinMaywa US-2 Flying Boat pilot briefs U.S. Air Force MC-130J Commando II pilots before a Search and Rescue training flight during Cope North 24 at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Feb. 14, 2024.Continued collaboration and integration of dispersed operations amongst Allies and partners creates an asymmetric advantage through access, interoperability, increased partner capacity, and increased domain awareness. Air Force

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Nov 16, 2022) Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Vice Adm. TAWARA Tateki, commander, Fleet Submarine Force, tours the Seawolf-class fast-attack submarine USS Seawolf (SSN 21) at Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Japan, Nov. 16, 2022. Seawolf routinely operates in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations, conducting maritime security operations and supporting national security interests.

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Sept. 3, 2013) Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Jacob Cooper performs passive acoustic analysis in the sonar control room aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61). Ramage is on a scheduled deployment supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility.

Coast Guard Cutters - Northland (WMEC 904) - 26-HK-76-120. CGC Northland ops--Coast Guardsman in control room on intercom--HIV preboarding, 09-17. Hurricane Katrina

DN-SC-87-10027. Base: Guantanamo Bay Country: Cuba (CUB)

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Chelsea Boehme, right, 22nd Airlift Squadron C-5M Super Galaxy flight engineer instructor, trains Tech. Sgt. Joseph Kesler, 22nd AS flight engineer journeyman, on a C-5M at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, August 26, 2022. The C-5M transported over 90,000 pounds of humanitarian aid to Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras, while aircrew members received training as part of the Major Command Service Tail Trainer program. The program, managed by Air Mobility Command, allots monthly flight hours to the C-5M specifically for training.

YOKOSUKA, Japan (Oct. 8, 2022) - Lt. Tara Dotzauer, from Raleigh, North Carolina, stands watch on the bridge of guided-missile destroyer USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) while the ship departs Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka, Oct. 8. Zumwalt is conducting underway operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

120709-N-VY256-046ARABIAN SEA (July 9, 2012) Electronics Technician 3rd Class Joshua Drew, right, detains a Sailor as Chief Sonar Technician (Surface) Colby Myers communicates with members of the visit, board, search and seizure team during a boarding exercise aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Cape St. George (CG 71). Cape St. George is deployed as part of the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Corey Martin, 18th Air Force commander, pilots a C-17 Globemaster III over the Pacific Northwest Sept. 8, 2022. The flight concluded a base visit at Travis Air Force Base that offered 18th AF leadership the opportunity to meet with Airmen contributing to the mobility mission.

SOUTH CHINA SEA (March 31, 2022) Quartermaster 2nd Class Sky Herrera, front, from Dallas, and Quartermaster Seaman Dakota Barnett, from Yuma, Ariz., stand quartermaster of the watch on the bridge aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

040603-F-8861W-002. Base: Naval Air Station, Keflavik Country: Iceland (ISL)

220714-N-CH260-1045 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 14, 2022) U.S. Navy Sailor Lt. Cmdr. Ryan Mills, right, gives United States Naval Institute journalist Mallory Shellbourn a tour of the tower aboard Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. Twenty-six nations, 38 ships, four submarines, more than 170 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in RIMPAC from June 29 to Aug. 4 in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The worlds largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity while fostering and sustaining cooperative relationships among participants critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the worlds oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

U.S. Air Force Col. Todd Deshler, A3 Director of Operations (center) explains the process of refueling and the flight plan to a group of employers while on an appreciation air refueling mission here on August 17, 2022. The employers, nominated by their Air National Guard employees, boarded a KC-135R Stratotanker, and witnessed the refueling of three F-16 Falcons and four F-35 Lightings while taking in an aerial view of Utahs West desert.

220907-N-CR843-0007 U-TAPAO, Thailand (Sept. 7, 2022) Naval Aircrewman (Operator) 2nd Class Cole Parker, assigned to the Fighting Tigers of Patrol Squadron (VP) 8, explains the mission systems aboard a P-8A Poseidon aircraft in U-Tapao, Thailand, to a member to the Royal Thai Navy during Sea Surveillance Exercise 2022, Sept. 7. VP-8 is currently deployed to Naval Air Facility (NAF) Misawa, Japan, conducting maritime patrol and reconnaissance and theater outreach operations within U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of Commander, Task Force 72 and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command objectives throughout the region.

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 21, 2022) Boatswains Mate Seaman Buckley Mitchell, from Lake Havasu, Ariz., stands watch on the fantail aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Oct. 9, 2012) Hull Technician 2nd Class Jeffery Smith stands propulsion auxiliary control watch aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74). McFaul is on a scheduled deployment conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. The U.S. Navy is constantly deployed to preserve peace, protect commerce, and deter aggression through forward presence. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting.

STAFF Sergeant Brian Holbrook, a boom operator with the 319th Air Expeditionary Group (AEG), calculates the weight and balance of a KC-135R Stratotanker prior to takeoff on an aerial refueling mission. The 319th AEG is deployed to a classified location providing aerial refueling support for Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Operation ENDURING FREEDOM is in support of the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT), fighting terrorism abroad. Subject Operation/Series: ENDURING FREEDOM Country: Unknown

220414-N-GW654-1341 EL CENTRO, Calif. (Apr. 14, 2022) - Vice Adm. Kenneth Whitesell, Commander, Naval Air Forces Pacific, left, observes unmanned operations conducted by pilots and aircrewman assigned to the Blackjacks of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 21. HSC-21 participated in a proof of concept showing the capabilities of Manned Unmanned Teaming (MUMT) by utilizing both manned and unmanned aircraft to accomplish a mission, which included manned refueling of MH-60s assisted by two CH-53E Super Stallions assigned to the Flying Tigers of Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 361 (HMH-361), and MUMT search and rescue operations utilizing an unmanned MQ-8B and two manned MH-60S.

120814-N-AZ513-018ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 14, 2012) Vice Chief of Naval Operations visits USS Ponce Vice Chief of Naval Operations (VCNO) Adm. Mark Ferguson speaks with Sailors assigned to the Afloat Forward Staging Base (Interim) USS Ponce (AFSB 15) in the combat direction center. Ponce, formerly designated as an amphibious transport dock (LPD), was converted and reclassified as an AFSB(I) in April to fulfill a long-standing U.S. Central Command request for an AFSB to be located in its area of responsibility. Ferguson is visiting deployed Sailors and leadership in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to thank Navy personnel and to demonstrate the continued commitment to regional partners.

U.S. Space Force 1st Lt. Shelby Andrade, 1st Range Operations Squadron sea surveillance officer, monitors the surrounding sea at the Morrell Operations Center on Cape Canaveral Space Force Stations, Fla., Aug. 4, 2022. Andrade was monitoring the surrounding sea for any possible disturbances prior to ULAs Atlas V 421 rocket that launched the sixth Space Based Infrared System Geosynchronous Earth Orbit missile detection and early warning satellite.

230326-N-YD731-1026 ADRIATIC SEA (March 26, 2023) Naval Air Crewman 3rd Class Cheistian Pedro, assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, tests the rescue hoist of an MH-60S Nighthawk on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), March 26, 2023. Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7 is the offensive air and strike component of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10 and the George H.W. Bush CSG. The squadrons of CVW-7 are Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 143, VFA-103, VFA-86, VFA-136, Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, HSC-5, and Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46. The George H.W. Bush CSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 20, 2022) - John Hennessey-Niland, U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Palau, right, and Capt. Hank Kim, Pacific Partnership 2022 (PP22) mission Commander, center, tour the bridge aboard Royal Navy River Class vessel HMS Tamar (P233) during a tour in support of PP22. Now in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific

221204-N-OM737-2066ATLANTIC OCEAN (Dec. 4, 2022) Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) Commanding Officer Capt. Paul Burkhart watches a fueling-at-sea evolution from the ship's bridge as the Bataan refuels Arleigh-Burke class destroyer USS Laboon (DDG 58), Dec. 4, 2022. Bataan is underway participating in Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT).

STAFF SGT. Frank Antonsen, 351st Aerial Refueling Squadron (ARS), 100th Aerial Refueling Wing (ARW), United Kingdom, as he refuels a C-5B Galaxy from Dover Air Force Base, Delaware. Base: Raf Mildenhall Country: Great Britain / England (GBR)

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Aug. 1, 2022) Sailors stand watch in the pilot house aboard Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62) during a replenishment-at-sea with Henry J Kaiser Class Oiler USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198) in the South China Sea on Aug. 1, 2022. Chancellorsville is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific and is assigned to Commander, Task Force 70, a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of its allies and partners in the region.

110813-N-JO245-024PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 13, 2011) Lt. Cmdr Eric Harrington shows distinguished visitors from Vietnam the Ouija board in flight deck control aboard the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). George Washington hosted senior members of Vietnam's military and civilian leadership and members of the Vietnamese media. George Washington is on a scheduled patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility.

220613-N-OK195-0112 ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 13, 2022) Machinist Mate 2nd Class Alex Bourne, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103), stands watch at the shaft control unit (SCU) inside the main engine room, June 13, 2022. The George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group (CSG) is underway completing a certification exercise to increase U.S. and allied interoperability and warfighting capability before a future deployment. The George H.W. Bush CSG is an integrated combat weapons system that delivers superior combat capability to deter, and if necessary, defeat America's adversaries in support of national security.

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (Nov. 6, 2012) Cryptologic Technician (Technical) Seaman Helen Hernandez monitors an SLQ-32 radar aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69). Dwight D. Eisenhower is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

220823-N-TO573-1406 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Aug. 23, 2022) Chief Aviation Electronics Technician Franklin Powell, from LaBelle, Florida, assigned to the "Dragonslayers" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 11, engages a lever in an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter during a damper check on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), Aug. 23, 2022. The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied and partner interests.

MASTER Sergeant David Gonzales and Technical Sergeant Veronica Knight both imagery analyst from the 152nd Air Wing, Nevada Air National Guard, examine imagery with the Scathe View system aboard an Air National Guard C-130 Hercules aircraft, during Exercise NORTHERN EDGE 2001. The system can capture imagery on the ground from up to 17,000 ft in the air and can instantly transmit the imagery to ground forces. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN EDGE 2001 State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220928-N-XB010-1002 PHILIPPINE SEA (Sept. 28, 2022) - Ensign Tomas Aragon, 2nd Division officer from San Francisco aboard the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18), shoots a bearing using a pelorus on the bridge as the ship pulls into port at Subic Bay, Philippines. New Orleans, part of the Tripoli 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. Air Force Senior Airman Alexander Danclar, a 92nd Air Refueling Wing boom operator from Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, performs a pre-flight check on a KC-135 Stratotanker before a sortie during RED FLAG-Alaska 22-2, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, June 13, 2022. RFAserves as an ideal platform for international engagement, and the exercise has a long history of including allies and partners, ultimately enabling all involved to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures while improving interoperability.

MANILA, Philippines (April 2, 2013) Capt. Elmer Magallanes, Manila harbor pilot, assists crew members of the forward-deployed amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46) in plotting a safe passage as the ship transits Manila Bay. Tortuga is part of the Bonhomme Richard Amphibious Ready Group, on deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility, and will be participating in the annual Republic of Philippines-U.S. military blilateral training exercise and humanitarian assistance engagement Balikatan 2013.

Captain Damon Hildebrand, Branch Head, Reserve Enabling Requirements, Office of the Chief of Navy Reserve (right) is seated at the flight controls of a C-130J Hercules simulator during his visit to the historic United States Air Force Plant 6 in Marietta, Georgia, the production facility for the latest generation of the C-130 Hercules. Lockheed Martin Photography by David L. Key. November 8, 2022

Air Force CPT Tracy Patton (right), Deputy Missle Combat Crew Commander watches as CPT Gary Stevens (left), Missle Combat Crew Commander, monitors the Rapid Execution and Combat Targeting (REACT) weapons system during the joint military exercise GLOBAL GUARDIAN '98. The REACT, located within the Missle Alert Facility, is manned by a two man, 24-hour, alert duty team and provides essential communication and control for specific missile sites. Subject Operation/Series: GLOBAL GUARDIAN '98 Base: Francis E. Warren Air Force Base State: Wyoming (WY) Country: United States Of America (USA)

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