Naval Operations

Visuals of sailors conducting small boat operations from ships, emphasizing teamwork and coordination during maritime exercises.

220403-N-UN585-1296 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 3, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) deploy a combat rubber raiding craft for use by U.S. Marines assigned to Task Group 61/2.4, April 4, 2022. Task Group 61/2.4 is part of Task Force 61/2, which will temporarily provide command and control support to the commander of U.S. Sixth fleet to synchronize Navy and Marine Corps units and capabilities already in theater, in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests. Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its 12th patrol in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

220929-N-FD648-1058 ADRIATIC SEA (Sept. 29, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) pull alongside the ship in a rigid-hulled inflatable boat during small boat operations, Sep. 29, 2022. The George H.W. Bush 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.

Sailors assigned to the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Fords (CVN 78) deck department prepare to lower a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) during small boat operations, Oct. 6, 2022. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) is deployed in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

220730-N-CM110-1123 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 30, 2022) - Sailors assigned to amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) operate a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) during a training evolution, July 30, 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.

220929-N-FD648-1013 ADRIATIC SEA (Sept. 29, 2022) Seaman Drake Williams, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99), enters a rigid-hulled inflatable boat during small boat operations, Sep. 29, 2022. The George H.W. Bush 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.

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 9, 2022) Sailors, assigned to the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG 53), sail to retrieve parts from the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) aboard a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB). 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.

120401-N-RI884-014PACIFIC OCEAN (April 1, 2012) Members of a visit, board, search and seizure team board the guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) from a rigid-hull inflatable boat during maritime exercise Koa Kai 12-2. Koa Kai is a semiannual exercise in the waters around Hawaii designed to prepare independent deployers in multiple warfare areas and provide training in a multi-ship environment. This is the first year San Diego-based ships are also participating.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (May 10, 2016) U.S. Marines assigned to Combat Logistics Battalion 22 (CLB-22), 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) board a Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) from amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) for transport to amphibious transport dock ship USS San Antonio (LPD 17) for a Foreign Humanitarian Aid training mission during composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX). The ships, 22nd MEU and Amphibious Squadron Six (PHIBRON-6) are underway for composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX).

220403-N-UN585-1296 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 3, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) deploy a combat rubber raiding craft for use by U.S. Marines assigned to Task Group 61/2.4, April 4, 2022. Task Group 61/2.4 is part of Task Force 61/2, which will temporarily provide command and control support to the commander of U.S. Sixth fleet to synchronize Navy and Marine Corps units and capabilities already in theater, in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests. Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its 12th patrol in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 19, 2022) - USCGC Myrtle Hazard (WPC 1139) transits the Pacific Ocean during a multilateral search and rescue exercise (SAREX) coordinated with the U.S. Navy, Republic of Palau, U.S. Coast Guard, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and Royal Navy in support of Pacific Partnership 2022. Now in its 17th year, Pacific Partnership is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific.

MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 7, 2017) The guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) approaches the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Joshua Humphreys (T-AO 188) for an underway replenishment, April 7, 2017. Porter, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is conducting naval operations in theU.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national security interests in Europe.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 19, 2022) - Sailors conduct small boat operations on a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110). William P. Lawrence is underway conducting routine operations in the U.S. 3rd Fleet. An integral part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd Fleet leads naval forces in the Indo-Pacific and provides the realistic, relevant training necessary to flawlessly execute our Navys role across the full spectrum of military operationsfrom combat operations to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. U.S. 3rd Fleet works together with our allies and partners to advance freedom of navigation, the rule of law, and other principles that underpin security for the Indo-Pacific region.

220413-N-UN585-2091 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 12, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) and Marines assigned to Task Group 61/2.4 operate together in the Mediterranean Sea, April 12, 2022. Task Group 61/2.4 is part of Task Force 61/2, which will temporarily provide command and control support to the commander of U.S. Sixth fleet to synchronize Navy and Marine Corps units and capabilities already in theater, in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests. Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its 12th patrol in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

110330-N-ZS029-092INDIAN OCEAN (March 30, 2011) GunnerÕs Mate 2nd Class John Carroll fires a shot line aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) to the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199). Boxer is the flagship of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and is underway supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

2206701-N-TC847-1020 ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 1, 2022) Sailors aboard the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55) lower a rigid-hull inflatable boat during small boat operation, June 1, 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 Americas adversaries in support of national security.

The Coast Guard Willow crew worked with Aids to Navigation Team (ANT) Puerto Rico and Coast Guard Regional Dive Locker East to recover two wayward buoy hulls and one sunken buoy hull during a 32-day patrol in the Caribbean Sea on Feb. 10, 2024, near Puerto Rico. Two wayward buoy hulls were in areas too shallow for Willow to operate in, so smaller craft from ANT Puerto Rico and divers from the Regional Dive locker were able to recover the two buoys from critical marine areas and complete an at-sea delivery to Willow. Coast Guard

Vintage Photograph. Lifeboat safety drill conducted on a ship deck in open sea.

220802-A-EQ028-1061 RED SEA (Aug. 2, 2022) Sailors assigned to the expeditionary sea base USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB 3) conduct small boat operations in the Red Sea, Aug. 2. Lewis B. Puller is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

CARIBBEAN SEA (October 22, 2020) A Coast Guardsman embarks a rigid-hull inflatable boat during small boat operations aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110), Oct. 22, 2020. William P. Lawrence 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 in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific.

220530-N-XR893-2002 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (May 30, 2022) Sailors assigned to USS Bainbridge (DDG 96) are lowered in a rigid-hull inflatable-boat, for a visit-board search and seizure exercise with USS Hershel "Woody" Williams (ESB 4), May 30, 2022. Bainbridge 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.

PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 10, 2022) Coast Guardsman Hannah Baraz assigned to U.S. Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143) participate in a live-fire exercise during integrated training with Maritime Expeditionary Security Group One (MESG-1), Detachment Guam.

220713-N-FT160-1025-IDPACIFIC OCEAN (July 13, 2022) Indonesian Navy Sailors prepare for a replenishment-at-sea with Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Henry J. Kaiser (T-AO 187) as part of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022. 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. (Indonesian Navy photo by Ensign Ariz Pama)

Crew members aboard USCGC Bear (WMEC 901) conduct training in a 26-foot Over the Horizon (OTH) small boat, Atlantic Ocean, July 13, 2022. The Bear and its crew are deploying to support the Northern Atlantic Fisheries Organization, deter illegal fishing and increase maritime domain awareness in tandem with partner nations.

110612-N-ZS026-108GULF OF ADEN (June 12, 2011) Sailors aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Bulkeley (DDG 84) heave in a line attached to refueling span wires from the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Alan Shepard (T-AKE 3) during a replenishment at sea. Bulkeley is underway in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

Crew members from USCGC Oak load a dewatering pump on a small boat during a damage control exercise in the Hamborgersund fjords off Greenland, July 5, 2022. The small boat crew is headed to the Danish navy ship Ejnar Mikkelsen as part of Exercise Argus. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Diana Sherbs.

220411-N-UN585-2087 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 11, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) and Marines assigned to Task Group 61/2.4 approach a combat rubber raiding craft from a rigid-hull inflatable boat as it is lowered into the water, April 11, 2022. Task Group 61/2.4 is part of Task Force 61/2, which will temporarily provide command and control support to the commander of U.S. Sixth fleet to synchronize Navy and Marine Corps units and capabilities already in theater, in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests. Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its 12th patrol in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

Crew members aboard the hospital ship USNS COMFORT (T-AH-20) secure a distance line in preparation for underway replenishment between the COMFORT and the Canadian operational support ship HMCS PROTECTEUR (AOR-509). The vessels are deployed to the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Storm. Subject Operation/Series: DESERT STORM Country: Unknown

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 5, 2012) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McCampbell (DDG 85) operate a refueling station during a replenishment at sea with the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (T-AO-197). McCampbell is part of the George Washington Carrier Strike Group based out of Yokosuka, Japan, and is conducting a patrol of the western Pacific. 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.

120206-N-PB383-711 ARABIAN GULF (Feb. 6, 2012) A Sailor fires a .50-caliber machine gun, as Gunners Mate 2nd Class Adrian Rodziewicz observes for safety during a live-fire exercise aboard the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). New Orleans and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (11th MEU) are deployed as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

220413-N-UN585-2031 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (April 12, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ross (DDG 71) prepare to launch a combat rubber raiding craft for Marines assigned to Task Group 61/2.4 as they operate with the ship in the Mediterranean Sea, April 12, 2022. Task Group 61/2.4 is part of Task Force 61/2, which will temporarily provide command and control support to the commander of U.S. Sixth fleet to synchronize Navy and Marine Corps units and capabilities already in theater, in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests. Ross, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its 12th patrol in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of regional allies and partners and U.S. national security interests in Europe and Africa.

220513-O-NR876-459SEA OF JAPAN (May 14, 2022) A 7m rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RIB) launched from the Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary mobile base USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5) transits towards the Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) for an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) personnel transfer during Exercise Noble Vanguard. Noble Vanguard serves as an enabler to reinforce tactics and techniques of different mission sets that contribute to regional stability.

The Over the Horizon (OTH) cutter boat crew assigned to the Famous-class medium endurance cutter USCGC Mohawk (WMEC 913) conducts boat operations with personnel assigned to a Coast Guard Tactical Law Enforcement Team (TACLET) in the Atlantic Ocean, July 16, 2022. USCGC Mohawk is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Africa area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

U.S. Marines with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigate on rigid hull, inflatable boats toward USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5) during a visit, board, search, and seizure exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 17, 2022. Marines and Sailors aboard LPD 18 provided oversight and command and control during the VBSS drill. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 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.

Fijian shipriders from the Republic Fiji Navy, Ministry of Fisheries, Fiji Immigration, and Fiji Revenue and Customs Services and a U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) boarding team partner together to conduct a fishery boarding in the Fiji Exclusive Economic Zone in the South Pacific Ocean, Feb. 16, 2024. The U.S. Coast Guard has a bilateral agreement with Fiji to assist with fishery patrols in Fijian waters. Coast Guard

110213-N-9793B-027ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 13, 2011) Members of the visit, board, search, and seizure (VBSS) team assigned to the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) board the training support vessel Prevail (TSV 1) during a VBSS exercise. Anzio is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting routine exercises as part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group in preparation for an upcoming combat deployment.

220708-N-QI593-1128 IONIAN SEA (July 8, 2022) Sailors return a messenger line aboard the USS Bainbridge (DDG 96) during a replenishment-at-sea with USNS Supply (T-AOE-6) in the Ionian Sea, July 8, 2022. Bainbridge 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.

Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Jack Hautala, from Ely, Minnesota, assigned to the first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford's (CVN 78) medical department, provides emergency medical care to a simulated victim of a mass casualty drill on the ship's aircraft elevator, Oct. 14, 2022. The Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group (GRFCSG) is deployed in the Atlantic Ocean, conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navy's commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

220730-N-CM110-1103 PACIFIC OCEAN (July 30, 2022) - Sailors assigned to amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) operate a rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) during a training evolution, July 30, 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.

221111-N-GF955-1059ENGLISH CHANNEL (Nov. 11, 2022) U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117) prepare to recover a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) during man-overboard drills, Nov. 11, 2022. Paul Ignatius, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, 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.

Sailors aboard USS REUBEN JAMES (FFG 57) deploy an inflatable target called a "Killer Tomato" for a gunnery exercise off the coast of Chile during Exercise TEAMWORK SOUTH '99. Subject Operation/Series: TEAMWORK SOUTH '99 Base: USS Reuben James (FFG 57)

DN-ST-89-02994. Country: Unknown

120820-N-YF306-669GULF OF ADEN (Aug. 20, 2012) Members of the visit, board, search and seizure team aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) depart from the Panamanian-flagged bulk carrier M/V Belde after medically evacuating one of its crew members. Winston S. Churchill is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 150, conducting counter-terrorism and maritime security operations in the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea, Red Sea and Indian Ocean.

120616-N-ZZ999-032PACIFIC OCEAN (June 17, 2012) Sailors in a rigid-hull inflatable boat from the guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59) retrieve 186 bales of marijuana, June 16, which were apparently destined for the United States. The counter narcotics effort was coordinated with crew from the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), USS Princeton (CG 59), Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 6, Helicopter Maritime Squadron (HSM) 75 and the Mexican navy.

220618-N-UL352-2200 ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 18, 2022) Sonar Technician (Surface) 1st Class Alejandro Cearnel, assigned to Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black (DDG 119), conducts tactical movements during a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) training exercise aboard USNS Narragansett (TSV 4), June 18, 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.

220614-N-N3764-1002CARIBBEAN SEA (June 14, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Billings (LCS 15) prepare a P-100 pump to provide damage control support during a simulated fire aboard French patrol vessel La Résolue (P734) as part of a Rescue and Assistance drill during exercise Caraibes 2022, June 14, 2022. Caraibes 2022 is a French led, combined and joint training exercise in the Caribbean involving naval, air and land assets. This multi-national exercise aims to promote cooperation among regional forces and their collective ability to successfully provide humanitarian assistance/disaster relief (HADR) in response to a natural disaster.

A U.S. Coast Guardsman attached to a Marine Security Response Team participates in a boarding exercise simulation as a part of Operation Nanook, Aug. 4, 2022. An MSRT unit embedded with USCGC Bear (WMEC 901) for Operation Nanook to showcase specialized Coast Guard law enforcement capabilities to partner nations.

When astronauts return to Earth from destinations beyond the Moon in NASAs Orion spacecraft and splashdown in the Pacific Ocean, theyll still need to safely get out of the spacecraft and back on dry land. Using the waters off the coast of Galveston, Texas, a NASA and Department of Defense team test Orion exit procedures in a variety of scenarios on July 11, 2017. Part of Batch images transfer from Flickr.

A crewman aboard USS REUBEN JAMES (FFG 57) prepares to fire his .50 caliber machine gun at an inflatable target called a "Killer Tomato" as part of a gunnery exercise. Reuben James is taking part in Exercise TEAMWORK SOUTH '99 off the coast of Chile. Subject Operation/Series: TEAMWORK SOUTH '99 Base: USS Reuben James (FFG 57)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigate in combat rubber raiding crafts during a boat launch rehearsal aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the South China Sea, Sept. 20, 2022. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 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.

060117-N-7027P-030. Base: USS Comstock (LSD 45) Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, climb from a rigid hull inflatable boat during a visit, board, search, and seizure operation off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, June 16, 2022. Inserting from both air and sea allows the Amphibious Reconnaissance Platoon and Battalion Landing Team 2/5 security team to quickly seize the key areas of the ship. The 31st MEU, the Marine Corps' only continuously forward-deployed MEU, provides a flexible and lethal force ready to perform a wide range of military operations as the premier crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific region.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Dec. 2, 2014) Sailors aboard the Oliver Hazard Perry-class guided-missile frigate USS Rodney M. Davis (FFG 60) take in a span wire during a replenishment-at-sea with the Military Sealift Command dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Matthew Perry (T-AKE-9). Rodney M. Davis is scheduled to be decommissioned in January 2015 and is making its final journey home to the U.S. after completing a patrol in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

EAST CHINA SEA (April 9, 2022) Lt. j.g. Ryan Kuhn, from Snow Hill, Md., observes Sailors conducting rigid-hull inflatable boat operations 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.

120115-N-NL401-104 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Jan. 14, 2012) A small-caliber action team aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) maintain a lookout while participating in a simulated strait transit exercise. James E. Williams is part of the Enterprise Carrier Strike Group conducting a composite training unit exercise prior to a regular deployment.

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 20, 2022) Sailors switch out a hot barrel on a .50 caliber machine gun during a live-fire exercise 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.

Boatswains Mate 3rd Class Elvin Rivera Perez, assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61), operates the boat davit during small boat operations as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group, Oct. 11, 2022. 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 for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict free Atlantic region.

DN-ST-88-07486. Base: Persian Gulf

SOUTH CHINA SEA (July 6, 2022) - Military Sealift Command civil service mariners assigned to the Emory S. Land-class submarine tender USS Frank Cable (AS 40) raise the rigid-hull inflatable boat out of the water following a man-overboard drill, July 6, 2022. Frank Cable is currently on patrol conducting expeditionary maintenance and logistics in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific in the 7th Fleet area of operations.

A U.S. Coast Guard Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) 26-foot over-the-horizon small boat crew and Fijian shipriders from the Republic Fiji Navy, Ministry of Fisheries, Fiji Immigration, and Fiji Revenue and Customs Services, transit to a fishing vessel in the Fiji Exclusive Economic Zone in the South Pacific Ocean, Feb. 15, 2024. Building upon our history of successful shiprider operations, the U.S. Coast Guard remains dedicated to enhance Fijis maritime law enforcement capabilities. Coast Guard

DN-ST-88-02736. Country: Persian Gulf

240226-N-DM318-1020 SAGAMI WAN, JAPAN (FEB. 26, 2024) Sailors raise a rig the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Robert Smalls (CG 62) during sea-and-anchor operations in Sagami Wan, Feb. 26, 2023. Robert Smalls is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70, and is forward-deployed to Yokosuka, Japan in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. Navy

Marines assigned to Battalion Landing Team (BLT) 1/5, 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), operate an 11-meter rigid inflatable boat while conducting visit, board, search and seizure training with the amphibious dock landing ship USS Harpers Ferry (LSD 4), while underway in the Pacific Ocean, Jan. 14, 2024. The Boxer Amphibious Ready Group, comprised of USS Boxer (LHD 4), USS Somerset (LPD 25), and Harpers Ferry, and the embarked 15th MEU are underway conducting integrated training and routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 12, 2022) - U.S. Marines with All Domain Reconnaissance Company, 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit, hold security in a Rigged Hulled Inflatable Boat for a Maritime Interception Operation exercise July 12. The 13th MEU is currently embarked aboard the Anchorage, conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

220722-A-EQ028-1046 GULF OF ADEN (July 22, 2022) A MANTAS T-12 unmanned surface vessel and a rigid-hull inflatable boat participate in an operations check and maintenance drill aboard the expeditionary sea base USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB 3) in the Gulf of Aden, July 22. Lewis B. Puller is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

220820-N-EH998-1013 ARABIAN GULF (Aug. 20, 2022) Sailors lower safety nets prior to flight operations aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) in the Arabian Gulf, Aug. 20. Nitze is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

240106-N-AB188-1008 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Jan. 6, 2024) Deck Department Sailors assigned to the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) set up replenishment-at-sea (RAS) station 5, Jan. 6. Bataan 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.

220622-N-QI593-1009 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (June 22, 2022) Seaman Justin Adams, from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, stands by during a seamanship training exercise aboard USS Bainbridge (DDG 96) in the Mediterranean Sea, June 22, 2022. Seamanship training team drills prepare sailors react swiftly in recovery operations in the case of a man overboard. Bainbridge 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.

220603-N-UF593-1109 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 3, 2022) Sailors prepare to conduct refueling-at-sea with USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198) on the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier, USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

060521-N-9851B-009. Base: USS Crommelin (FFG 37)

220613-N-BR419-1131 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 13, 2022) Sailors assigned to the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) conduct small boat operations aboard a rigid-hull inflatable boat. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Coast Guard Station Islamorada's boat crew transfers people from the unsafe sailing vessel to a Coast Guard cutter about 40 miles southeast of Islamorada, Florida, June 25, 2022. The people were repatriated to Haiti on June 29, 2022.

Abraham Lincoln conducts small boat operations220926-N-ON253-1025 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 26, 2022) Lt. j.g. Eugene Hong, right, from Bellevue, Wash., communicates with the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during small boat operations on a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB). Abraham Lincoln is currently underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

220930-N-FD648-1042 ADRIATIC SEA (Sept. 30, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut (DDG 99) stand by for a replenishment-at-sea with the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196), Sept. 30, 2022. The George H.W. Bush 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.

ARABIAN SEA (May 6, 2012) Sailors man a fire hose during a general quarters drill aboard guided-missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69). Vicksburg is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Haitians are transferred from Coast Guard Cutter Campbell's small boat to the cutter approximately 20 miles south of Turks and Caicos, May 9, 2022. The Haitians were repatriated to Haiti on May 11, 2022.

120908-N-HV737-059 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 8, 2012) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Eightballers of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8 and attached to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) conducts a vertical replenishment with the Military Sealift Command fast combat support ship USNS Bridge (T-AOE 10). John C. Stennis is returning to the U.S. 7th and 5th Fleet areas of responsibility four months ahead of schedule to maintain combatant commander requirements and Navy assets in the region.

BALTIC SEA (Oct. 22, 2022) Sailors conduct boat operations aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), Oct. 22, 2022. Roosevelt 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.

Members of SEAL Team One are shown coming alongside the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS LOUISVILLE (SSN-724) in Zodiac boats upon completing their assignment portion of Operation Varsity Swimmer '93 off the coast of southern California. Subject Operation/Series: VARSITY SWIMMER '93 Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

U.S. Navy Seals conduct boat seizure training with Guatemalan soldiers during CENTAM Guardian 2023 in Guatemala, Mar 23. 2023. CENTAM Guardian 23 (CG23) is an annual multi-national partnership-building exercise designed to build capacity and capabilities with Central American partner nations.

BALTIC SEA (Oct. 25, 2022) Boatswains Mate Seaman Pablo Garciamedina observes a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB), attached to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), come alongside the ship during boat operations, Oct. 25, 2022. Roosevelt 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 31, 2012) A rigid-hull inflatable boat transports personnel to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47). Rushmore is part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group and is underway conducting a composite training unit exercise (COMPTUEX) in the Pacific Ocean with the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) and the amphibious transport dock ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20).

A view of the forward deck of a tank landing ship as crewmen prepare highlines for underway replenishment operations. Base: San Diego State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

221007-N-XB010-1015 Philippine Sea (Oct. 7, 2022) - Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) assist Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) returning to the well deck in combat ready rubber crafts (CRRCs). 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.

120423-N-XR557-317 ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 23, 2012) The Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Leroy Grumman (T-A0 195), left, transits alongside the guided-missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98) while the ships conduct a replenishment at sea during Exercise Joint Warrior 2012. Joint Warrior serves as a certifying event for ships deploying with coalition forces in future operations.

The Sentinel-class fast response cutter USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) accesses the mooring ball in Apra Harbor Sept. 18, 2022, following more than 8,000 nautical mile patrol through Oceania. The U.S. Coast Guard is conducting a routine deployment in Oceania as part of Operation Blue Pacific, working alongside Allies, building maritime domain awareness, and sharing best practices with partner nation navies and coast guards. Op Blue Pacific is an overarching multi-mission U.S. Coast Guard endeavor promoting security, safety, sovereignty, and economic prosperity in Oceania while strengthening relationships with our regional partners. (U.S. Coast Guard photo Petty Officer 2nd Class Sean Ray Blas)

DN-ST-86-12466. Base: Naval Station, Norfolk State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The Coast Guard interdicts a migrant vessel on the Caribbean Sea. The overloaded Haitian vessel was interdicted by the Coast Guard Cutters Diligence (WMEC-616) and Confidence (WMEC-619) while engaged in an illegal maritime migration. (U.S. Coast Guard by Petty Officer 3rd Class Seth Rentz)

060505-N-2258R-003. Base: USS Mason (DDG 87) Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

U.S. Coast Guard Cmdr. Nicole Tesoniero, U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) commanding officer, watches a fishery boarding take place with U.S. Coast Guard members and Fijian shipriders from the Republic Fiji Navy, Ministry of Fisheries, Fiji Immigration, and Fiji Revenue and Customs Services in the Fiji Exclusive Economic Zone in the South Pacific Ocean, Feb. 15, 2024. The Harriet Lane crew will continue to partner with Fiji officials to build upon good maritime governance. Coast Guard

A test version of the Orion crew module floats in the Pacific Ocean during Underway Recovery Test 5 in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California. Nearby are U.S. Navy divers and other personnel in a rigid hull inflatable boat. NASA's Ground Systems Development and Operations Program and the U.S. Navy are conducting a series of tests using the well deck of the USS San Diego, several watercraft, support equipment and personnel to prepare for recovery of Orion on its return from deep space missions. The testing will allow the team to demonstrate and evaluate recovery processes, procedures, hardware and personnel in open waters. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry astronauts to destinations not yet explored by humans, including an asteroid and NASA's Journey to Mars. It will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities. Orion is scheduled to launch on NASA's Space Launch System in lat

PENTLAND FIRTH STRAIT (Oct. 7, 2022) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) transits through the Pentland Firth Strait while participating in exercise Joint Warrior 22-2, Oct. 7, 2022. Exercise Joint Warrior 22-2 is a U.K.-hosted, multilateral training exercise designed to provide NATO and allied forces with a unique multi-warfare environment to prepare for global operations. Roosevelt 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.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Jan. 26, 2013) Sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) connect fuel lines from the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Kanawha (T-AO 196) during a replenishment-at-sea. Harry S. Truman is underway conducting a composite training unit exercise in preparation for its upcoming deployment.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Crew members and divers in skiffs from Liberty Star, one of NASA's solid rocket booster retrieval ships, are prepared to retrieve the parachute lines from the right spent booster bobbing in the Atlantic Ocean from space shuttle Discovery's final launch. The shuttle's two solid rocket booster casings and associated flight hardware are recovered in the Atlantic Ocean after every launch by Freedom Star and Liberty Star. The boosters impact the Atlantic about seven minutes after liftoff and the retrieval ships are stationed about 10 miles from the impact area at the time of splashdown. After the spent segments are processed, they will be transported to Utah, where they will be refurbished and stored, if needed.

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 9, 2022) A Sailor aboard Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) observes as two F/A 18E Super Hornets assigned to the Royal Maces of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 27, deployed aboard the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), conduct a fly-over. Benfold is assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navys largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleets principal surface force.

U.S. Navy divers prepare to deploy for night operations on Nov. 3, 2018, during Underway Recovery Test-7 (URT-7) in the well deck of the USS John P. Murtha. NASA's Recovery Team is testing to verify and validate procedures and hardware that will be used to recover the Orion spacecraft after it splashes down in the Pacific Ocean following deep space exploration missions. Orion will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities.

A U.S. Navy Sailor assigned to USS New Orleans (LPD 18), jumps from the catwalk during a swim call aboard New Orleans in the South China Sea, Sept. 25, 2022. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 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. Marines assigned to the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit and Sailors assigned to the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD 24) get transported to a Turkish Armed Forces ship on a Turkish small boat as part of a personnel exchange during exercise EFES 2022, near the coast of Izmir, Turkey, May 28, 2022. EFES22 is an international Combined Joint Live-Fire Exercise focused on increasing force readiness, promoting stability and prosperity in the region, and interoperability between the U.S., Turkey, and allied nations.

U.S. Marines with 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, climb onto USS Miguel Keith (ESB 5) during a visit, board, search, and seizure exercise aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 17, 2022. Marines and Sailors aboard LPD 18 provided oversight and command and control during the VBSS drill. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 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.

110105-N-0000X-002 ARABIAN SEA (Jan. 5, 2011) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) respond to a medical emergency aboard an Iranian fishing vessel approximately 400 nautical miles north of Seychelles, off the coast of Somalia Jan. 5. Momsen is assigned to Combined Task Force (CTF) 151 supporting counter-piracy operations in the Somali Basin and Gulf of Aden.

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