Naval Recovery Missions

Images of U.S. Navy and rescue teams practicing recovery of the Orion capsule and performing marine operations in the Pacific Ocean.

U.S. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit ride in a landing craft, utility (LCU) sailed by U.S. Navy Sailors aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) during Noble Odyssey in the Miyako Strait, Aug. 26, 2022. Noble Odyssey consists of infantry and signals intelligence Marines helping to sustain a landing craft, utility in open waters for prolonged periods by providing warnings, force protections, and electronic attacks against adversaries. 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.

NASA's Recovery Team, along with the U.S. Navy, practice recovering a test version of the Orion capsule as part of Underway Recovery Test-7 (URT-7) in the Pacific Ocean. URT-7 is one in a series of tests that the Exploration Ground Systems Recovery Team, along with the U.S. Navy, are conducting 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. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) small boat crew and boarding team, along with two Samoan shipriders from Samoa Police and Ministry of Agriculture and Fishery, embark on a fishing vessel to conduct a routine boarding in the Samoa Exclusive Economic Zone, Feb. 5, 2024. The U.S. Coast Guard and Samoa have an agreement to work alongside each other to protect Samoa waters. Coast Guard

U.S. Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit ride in a landing craft, utility (LCU) sailed by U.S. Navy Sailors aboard the amphibious dock landing ship USS Rushmore (LSD 47) during Noble Odyssey in the Miyako Strait, Aug. 26, 2022. Noble Odyssey consists of infantry and signals intelligence Marines helping to sustain a landing craft, utility in open waters for prolonged periods by providing warnings, force protections, and electronic attacks against adversaries. 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.

DN-SC-87-08294. Country: Gulf Of Mexico

During Underway Recovery Test-7 (URT-7), U.S. Navy divers approach a test version of the Orion capsule to practice securing it for recovery into the well deck of an amphibious assault ship on Oct. 31, 2018 in the Pacific Ocean. The Exploration Ground Systems recovery team and the U.S. Navy work together 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 Swedish Coast Guard rigid-hull inflatable boat makes a high-speed run during exercise BALTOPS '93. Subject Operation/Series: BALTOPS '93 Country: Baltic Sea

DN-SD-03-16527. Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS 43-03 Country: Unknown Scene Major Command Shown: USS Yorktown (CG 48)

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Support boats connect off Florida's central east coast during a rescue training exercise, known as Mode VIII. In support of, and with logistical support from, NASA, USSTRATCOM is hosting a major exercise involving Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, search and rescue (SAR) forces, including the 45th Space Wing at Patrick Air Force Base, which support space shuttle astronaut bailout contingency operations, known as Mode VIII. This exercise tests SAR capabilities to locate, recover and provide medical treatment for astronauts following a space shuttle launch phase open-ocean bailout. Participants include members of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Air Force, and NASA's Kennedy Space Center and Johnson Space Center.

220924-N-SN516-2111 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 24, 2022) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Decatur's (DDG 73) visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team boards a fishing vessel during an exercise. Decatur is currently operating with Nimitz Carrier Strike Group in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, navigate in a combat rubber raiding craft 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.

230218-N-NH267-1284 ARABIAN SEA (Feb. 18, 2023) U.S. Coast Guardsmen assigned to fast response cutter USCGC Charles Moulthrope (WPC 1141) conduct small boat operations alongside guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) in the Arabian Sea, Feb. 18, 2023. Charles Moulthrope and Paul Hamilton are deployed to U.S. 5th Fleet to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

220401-N-TI693-1348ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 4, 2022) - U.S. Service members and Cabo Verdean maritime forces embarked aboard the Expeditionary Sea Base USS Hershel "Woody" Williams (ESB 4) load into a rigid-hull inflatable boat during a maritime security patrol, April 1, 2022. The joint U.S. and Cabo Verdean team, with support from the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) and Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre - Narcotics (MAOC-N), interdicted one of the largest trans-oceanic drug shipments. Hershel "Woody" Williams is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national interests and security in Europe and Africa.

A port quarter view of the tank landing ship USS SUMTER (LST-1181) during Fleet Ex 1-90. Subject Operation/Series: FLEET EX 1-90 Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 24, 2022) Ship's company from Royal Australian Navy Landing Helicopter Dock HMAS Canberra (L02) take a capability appreciation tour aboard a Landing Helicopter Dock Landing Craft as the ship participates in 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 world's 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 world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971. (Photo by Royal Australian Navy Petty Officer Christopher Szumlanski)

220126-N-CJ510-0102NAVAL STATION ROTA, Spain (Jan. 26, 2022) Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Roosevelt (DDG 80) conduct small boat operations with a rigid-hull inflatable boat, Jan. 26, 2022. Roosevelt, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is on its third 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. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Andrea Rumple/Released)

220401-N-TI693-1350ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 4, 2022) - U.S. service members, Cabo Verdean maritime forces, and an Interpol intelligence officer depart from aboard the Expeditionary Sea Base USS Hershel "Woody" Williams (ESB 4) to conduct a compliant boarding on a vessel smuggling approximately 6,000 kilograms of contraband during a maritime security patrol, April 1, 2022. The joint U.S. and Cabo Verdean team, with support from the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) and Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre - Narcotics (MAOC-N), interdicted one of the largest trans-oceanic drug shipments. Hershel "Woody" Williams is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations in support of U.S. national interests and security in Europe and Africa.

DN-SC-87-08252. Country: Gulf Of Mexico

TINIAN, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (June 17, 2022) Marines, assigned to 1st Marine Expeditionary Force (1MEF), and Sailors, from Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5, currently assigned Commander, Task Force (CTF) 70 onboard USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) integrate to conduct a beach assault and airfield damage repair exercise in support of Valiant Shield 2022. Both units conducted tactical insertion methods, with 1MEF executing a helo cast from a HSC-25 MH-60S Sea Hawk, and EODMU5 completing a static line jump from a VRC-30 C-2A Greyhound. After 1MEF conducted reconnaissance and secured the beach under the cover of darkness, EODMU5 utilized a cargo drop to access the beach and completed an Expeditionary Airfield Damage Repair evolution, clearing simulated submunitions. Exercises such as Valiant Shield allows the Indo-Pacific Command Joint Forces the opportunity to integrate forces from all branches of service to conduct precise, lethal, and overwhelming m

Crew members aboard an over-the-horizon cutter boat conduct operations near Little Diomede, Alaska, Oct. 9, 2022. USCGC Stratton (WMSL 752) is currently underway in support of a scheduled deployment in the 17th Coast Guard Districts area of operations, patrolling the Bering Sea, North Pacific and Arctic oceans.U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Melissa E. F. McKenzie.

GULF OF OMAN (Oct. 2, 2022) A boarding team from the United Kingdoms Royal Navy frigate HMS Montrose (F236) interdict a fishing vessel in international waters in the Gulf of Oman, Oct. 2. (UK Royal Navy photo)

Artemis II Orion Underway Recovery Test 10 (URT-10) - Day 3. Navy divers from Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Expeditionary Support Unit 1 work to secure the Orion Crew Module Test Article (CMTA) in the Pacific Ocean as part of NASAs Underway Recovery Test 10 (URT-10). The divers are trained in open water and small boat procedures and will be the team to help Artemis astronauts exit the Orion spacecraft and make it safely to the recovery ship after splashdown in addition to preparing the spacecraft to be transported back inside the recovery ship.

120521-N-KB052-201GULF OF THAILAND (May 21, 2012) U.S. Marines assigned to Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team Pacific (FASTPAC) make their approach to a Thai fishing vessel in a U.S. Coast Guard short range prosecutor during a visit, board, search and seizure exercise with the Royal Thai Navy. The exercise also included a maritime law enforcement team assigned to U.S. Coast Guard cutter Waesche (WMSL 751) as part of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Thailand 2012. CARAT is a series of bilateral exercises held annually in Southeast Asia to strengthen relationships and enhance force readiness.

Crewmen from USS REUBEN JAMES (FFG 57) prepare to hoist a RHIB (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat) aboard while off the coast of Ecuador. Reuben James will be conducting bilateral operations with the Chilean navy during exercise TEAMWORK SOUTH '99. Subject Operation/Series: TEAMWORK SOUTH '99 Base: USS Reuben James (FFG 57)

220608-N-LP924-1641 PACIFIC OCEAN (June 8, 2022) U.S. Coast Guardsmen from Maritime Safety Response Team West (MSRT-W) conduct helicopter visit, board, search and seizure (HVBSS) training off the coast of San Diego. During Helicopter Sea Combat Weapons School Pacific (HSCWSP) quarterly exercise PHOENIX TRIDENT ASSAULT, MSRT-W and squadrons from Helicopter Sea Combat Wing Pacific (HSCWP) and Helicopter Maritime Strike Wing Pacific (HSMWP) conducted HVBSS to board and secure vessels that were under the control of state sponsored terrorists.

230119-N-LR048-1088 SAN DIEGO (Jan. 19, 2023) - Navy Sailors assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 3 (front), deploy a 46-man life raft as crewmembers assigned to Air Force 445th Airlift Wing prepare to disembark from a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) vessel (back), assigned to Coast Guard Sector San Diego during a mass casualty at sea personnel recovery event off the coast of Southern California, Jan. 19. During the evolution, HSC-3 Chief of Naval Operations Search and Rescue Model Manager oversaw the Search and Rescue Exercise with HSC-8, HSC-23, Coast Guard Sector San Diego, and crewmembers assigned to the Air Force 445th Airlift Wing.

A U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane (WMEC) boat deck crew mans the dual point davit to lower the 26-foot over-the-horizon small boat for Vanuatu fishery and Vanuatu police officials to conduct a fishery boarding in the Vanuatu Exclusive Economic Zone, in the South Pacific Ocean, Feb. 24, 2024. Harriet Lanes presence in the Blue Pacific is a testament to our decades-long support and adaptability to the evolving needs of our regional partners. Coast Guard

Philippine and U.S. Marines conduct an amphibious landing during KAMANDAG 6, Zambales, Philippines, Oct. 7, 2022. KAMANDAG is an annual bilateral exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences.

110512-N-ZS026-354 GULF OF ADEN (May 12, 2011) Landing Craft Air Cushioned (LCAC) 65, from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 5, navigates in open water behind amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4). Boxer and ACU 5 are part of Boxer Amphibious Ready Group and are underway supporting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

A bow view of a Special Boat Unit 24 (SBU-24) PB Mark III patrol boat underway during the joint service exercise Ocean Venture '93. Members of the unit are acting as drug runners during the exercise. Subject Operation/Series: OCEAN VENTURE '93 State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A Navy paratrooper is being rescued from the water and transported aboard a rubber boat to the Coast Guard ship Firebush after a jump from C-130 Hercules aircraft during exercise Brim Frost '81. Subject Operation/Series: BRIM FROST '81 Base: Kodiak State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Djiboutian coast guardsmen conduct a simulated water rescue as part of the combined joint interoperability exercise Bull Shark near Arta Range, Djibouti, Dec. 3, 2022. Djiboutian coast guardsmen worked directly with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, and Spanish navy to conduct multiple simulated personnel recovery operations. (Department of Defense photo by U.S. Air Force Thomas Johns)

220807-N-XB010-1005 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 7, 2022) Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), fall into formation in combat ready reconnaissance crafts (CRRCs) alongside Sailors on safety watch in a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18). 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. 5TH FLEET AREA OF RESPONSIBILTY (Sept. 9, 2012) AN/SLQ-48 Mine Neutralization System is recovered by Mineman 2nd Class William Morse, from Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., using the vehicle handling system aboard the mine countermeasure ship USS Dextrous (MCM 13). Dextrous is assigned to Commander, Task Force 52 supporting mine countermeasure operations in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

220910-N-EH998-1178 RED SEA (Sept. 10, 2022) Sailors assigned to guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) conduct visit, board, search, and seizure drills with the Royal Jordanian Navy in the Red Sea, Sept. 10. Nitze is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

A Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater C-130 Hercules law enforcement air crew alerted Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstanders of a rustic vessel about 40 miles south of Long Key, Florida, May 17, 2020. The people were repatiatired to Cuba on May 21, 2022.

060910-N-4856G-189. Base: Naval Station Pearl Harbor State: Hawaii (HI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

NORTH ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 4, 2022) - The Icelandic off-shore patrol vessel ICGV Freyja, front, German Sachsen-class air-defense frigate FGS Sachsen (F 219), right, and French frigate Latouche-Tréville (D 646) conduct a photo exercise with the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) during exercise Northern Viking 22 April 4, 2022. Northern Viking 22 strengthens interoperability and force readiness between the U.S., Iceland and allied nations, enabling multi-domain command and control of joint and coalition forces in the defense of Iceland and Sea lines of Communication in the Greenland, Iceland, United Kingdom (GIUK) gap.

220512-O-NR876-919SEA OF JAPAN (May 12, 2022) The MK 18 MOD 1 Swordfish is lowered into the water as the 7m rigid-hull inflatable boat (RIB) from the Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) prepares to come alongside during Exercise Noble Vanguard. The Swordfish is an unmanned underwater vehicle with the sonar capabilities to scan the ocean floor for potential mines. Noble Vanguard serves as an enabler to reinforce tactics and techniques of different mission sets that contribute to regional stability.

A PBR Mark 2 riverine patrol boat plows up sheets of water as it moves at speed past two other patrol boats and a commercial vessel. The patrol boats are among the Navy assets being used in the gulf to provide security for U.S. flagged shipping in the area. Country: Unknown

Members of Special Boat Unit 4 (SBU-4) operate a rigid-hull inflatable boat at high speed during the joint service Exercise Ocean Venture '93. Subject Operation/Series: OCEAN VENTURE '93 State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

Marines with 3rd tracks prepare an Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAVP7A1) to embark on the USS MOUNT VERNON (LSD-39) for Kernel Blitz '99. Kernel Blitz '99 was a amphibious assault beach landing conducted primarily by 1ST Marine Division. Subject Operation/Series: KERNEL BLITZ '99 Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

Orion recovery training and operations continue in the Pacific Ocean on Sept. 14, 2014. NASA and the Navy team on board the USS Salvor are evaluating procedures for pulling a test version of the spacecraft out of the ocean using the ship's crane. Part of Batch image transfer from Flickr.

Coast Guard Cutter Campbell's small boat crew works with Haitian Coast Guard members patrolling the Windward Passage off Haiti, April 11, 2022. Coast Guard Cutter Campbell is homeported in Kittery, Maine.

DN-ST-89-02848. Base: Naval Amphib Base, Little Creek State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Coast Guard Marine Protector-class patrol boat USCGC Sea Otter (WPB-87362) enforces the safe maritime mitigation zone during a mine countermeasure (MCM) live fire training exercise off the coast of San Clemente Island, Aug. 26, 2022. The MCM live fire is realistic, relevant training that enables our joint, multi-domain forces to integrate and rehearse a critical capability and complex skillset.

U.S. Marines with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, consolidate after conducting open water free fall operations off the coast of Okinawa, Japan April 25, 2022. This specialized training provided Marines with enhanced skills and confidence for deliberate water parachute operations, ensuring they are prepared to execute a diverse set of waterborne reconnaissance and surveillance missions in order to maintain regional security in the Indo-Pacific.

The fishing vessel, Golden Alaska, can be seen through the door of an Air Station Kodiak MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter, on June 14, 2022.Watchstanders in the 17th Coast Guard District Command Center received the request for assistance reporting the individual had lost consciousness and was experiencing an altered mental state.U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Jason Frayne.

Members of the Philippine National Police - Maritime Group, 2nd Special Operations Unit and Philippine Coast Guard Special Operations Force prepare to board a ship while conducting a visit, board, search and seizure demonstration on June 2, 2022, near Puerto Princesa, Palawan. This engagement provided an opportunity for the Philippine National Police, Philippine Coast Guard Special Operations Force and U.S. Green Berets to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures with each other in an effort to enhance interoperability while sharing new ideas for maritime operations. U.S. Special Operations Forces continue to prepare for tomorrows challenges and seize the initiative nowtogether. The U.S. focus on integrated deterrence requires geographically distributed, operationally resilient, defense-in-depth, and sustainable force postures that are coordinated globally and effectively employed every day.

A rigid-hull inflatable boat filled with members of the Philippine National Police - Maritime Group, 2nd Special Operations Unit and Philippine Coast Guard Special Operations Force moves toward its objective during a visit, board, search and seizure demonstration on June 10, 2022, near Puerto Princesa, Palawan. Green Berets with 1st Special Forces Group (airborne) accompanied the Philippine forces during the mission. This engagement provided an opportunity for the partners to exchange tactics, techniques and procedures with each other in an effort to enhance interoperability while sharing new ideas for maritime operations. U.S. Special Operations Forces continue to prepare for tomorrows challenges and seize the initiative now…together. The U.S. focus on integrated deterrence requires geographically distributed, operationally resilient, defense-in-depth, and sustainable force postures that are coordinated globally and effectively employed every day.

220910-N-EH998-1174 RED SEA (Sept. 10, 2022) Sailors assigned to guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) conduct visit, board, search, and seizure drills with the Royal Jordanian Navy in the Red Sea, Sept. 10. Nitze is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

A view looking forward from the top of the fairweather sail of the nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine USS PENNSYLVANIA (SSBN-735) as the ship steams off the United States coastline. A lookout uses binoculars to scan the horizon. Country: Unknown

Aerial starboard view of an Mark-35 Septar boat in use during Harpoon missile test from the Aegis guided missile cruiser USS TICONDEROGA (CG 47) near the Atlantic Fleet Weapons Training Facility, Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

Local media observe the at-sea boarding exercises conducted by members of the U.S. Coast Guard and partner Caribbean nations during Tradewinds 2022 in Belize City, Belize, on May 18, 2022. Tradewinds 2022 focuses on foreign military interaction, maritime interdiction, ground security, and field training exercises supporting SOUTHCOM's Campaign Plan.

U.S. Marines with Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, tow a combat rubber raiding craft during a company formation exercise off the USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 6, 2022. Blackhearts practiced formations on the water to refine infantry tactics. The 31st MEU is operating aboard the ships of the Tripoli Expeditionary Strike 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.

220906-N-GF955-1102BALTIC SEA (Sept. 6, 2022) U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Ignatius (DDG 117) bring a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) in for recovery during a man overboard drill, Sept. 6, 2022. Paul Ignatius is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, 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.

060730-N-8977L-027. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

Petty Officer 3rd Class Joshua Smith, a marine inspector from Coast Guard Sector Anchorages Marine Safety Task Force (MSTF), conducts a dockside commercial fishing vessel safety exam in Naknek, Alaska, June 15, 2022. MSTF members conducted inspections throughout the Bristol Bay region June 13 - 24 and focused on safety equipment such as flares, charts, navigational signals, fire extinguishers, emergency position indicating radio beacons, and the serviceability of immersion suits. Each vessel that passed a dockside exam earned a decal. U. S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Melissa E. F. McKenzie.

Turkish naval ships with the Turkish Armed Forces conduct a demonstration alongside San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock USS Arlington (LPD 24) during exercise EFES 2022 off the coast of Turkey, June 9, 2022. EFES 22 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 Battalion Landing Team 2/5, 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, paddle out in a combat rubber raiding craft during a boat launch aboard USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 19, 2022. Boat company launches from the well deck to provide the landing force a ship-to-shore capability. 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 with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion, 3d Marine Division, execute an amphibious raid after conducting open water free fall operations off the coast of Okinawa, Japan April 25, 2022. This specialized training provided Marines with enhanced skills and confidence for deliberate water parachute operations, ensuring they are prepared to execute a diverse set of waterborne reconnaissance and surveillance missions in order to maintain regional security in the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. Navy divers and other personnel in rigid hull inflatable boats have attached tether lines to a test version of the Orion crew module during Underway Recovery Test 5 in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California. NASA's Ground Systems Development and Operations Program and the U.S. Navy are conducting a series of tests using the USS San Diego, various watercraft and equipment to practice for recovery of Orion on its return from deep space missions. The testing allows 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 late 2018.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 15, 2022) Crewmembers aboard Legend-class cutter USCGC Midgett (WMSL 757) rescue a simulated survivor during a mass rescue exercise for 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 world's 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 world's oceans. RIMPAC 2022 is the 28th exercise in the series that began in 1971.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 17, 2013) A landing craft air cushion (LCAC) from Assault Craft Unit 4 approaches the well deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3). Kearsarge is participating in Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) off the East Coast of the U.S. in preparation for a deployment this spring.

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Northland (WMEC 904) patrols with the Haitian Coast Guard in vicinity of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Oct. 12, 2022. The U.S. Coast Guard is one part of a whole-of-government approach to assist the Haitian government with security and stability throughout Haiti through the deterrence and prevention of dangerous, irregular maritime migration.

220720-N-PQ495-1032 SAN DIEGO (July 20, 2022) American service members, assigned to Combined Task Force 177, and their German counterparts conduct a Mine Exploitation Exercise during Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2022 in Southern California. 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.

SULU SEA (Feb. 25, 2013) Salvage crew members assigned to the U.S. Navy contracted vessel M/V Jascon 25 are transferred by crane to the mine countermeasures ship USS Guardian (MCM 5). Guardian ran aground on the Tubbataha Reef Jan. 17. Unsafe seas conditions does not allow boarding of the ship by rigid-hull inflatable boats. The U.S. Navy and contracted salvage teams continue damage assessments and the removal of equipment and parts to prepare the grounded ship to be safely dismantled and removed from Tubbataha Reef. The U.S. Navy continues to work in close cooperation with the Philippine authorities to safely dismantle Guardian from the reef while minimizing environmental effects.

221011-N-ZZ999-0207 GROTON, Conn. (October 11, 2022) - A security patrol boat assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) EIGHT conducts live-fire exercises near the mouth of the Thames River in Groton, Conn., Oct. 11. MSRONs primary mission is to provide force protection of strategic shipping and naval vessels operating in the inshore and coastal areas, anchorages and harbors from bare beach to sophisticated port facilities.

EAST CHINA SEA (April 9, 2022) Sailors, assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), transfer Sailors to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance (DDG 111) in a rigid-hull inflatable boat. 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.

U.S. Navy Sailors assigned to USS New Orleans (LPD 18) fire an M2 .50-caliber machine gun during a defense of the amphibious task force live-fire aboard LPD 18 in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 2, 2022. DATF scenarios focus Navy and Marine Corps forces on defending ARG shipping and the drills allowed the ARG-MEU team to improve their proficiency when integrating fires. 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.

060717-N-5914D-001. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

DF-ST-87-03738. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN WEDDING '86 State: North Atlantic Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

PACIFIC OCEAN (Jan. 15, 2022) Sailors signal the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Guadalupe (T-AO 200) from the hangar bay aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) during a replenishment-at-sea. 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.

BALTIC SEA (Aug. 10, 2022) Landing Craft Unit 1662, assigned to Assault Craft Unit 2 transports U.S. Marines during a U.S. -Finland bilateral exercise, Aug. 10, 2022. Gunston Hall is part of the Kearsarge Amphibious Ready Group and embarked 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, under the command and control of Task Force 61/2, 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.

220821-N-IX644-1004 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Aug. 21, 2022) A Sailor assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), stands lookout watch in the hangar bay while pulling alongside the fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8) for a replenishment-at-sea, Aug. 21, 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.

Members of the rescue swimmer team from the guided missile frigate USS GARY (FFG-51) conducts a "man overboard" drill during a dependent's day cruise. In this view the ship's rigid rubber boat moves in to pick up the rescue swimmer and man overboard. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

221007-N-XB010-1011 Philippine Sea (Oct. 7, 2022) - Seaman Joshua Dilone, from Bronx, N.Y., assists Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) returning to the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) well deck in a combat ready rubber craft (CRRC) by tossing them a heaving line. 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.

A starboard quarter view of the patrol combatant missile hydrofoil USS HERCULES (PHM-2) underway during NATO exercise Northern Wedding '86. Subject Operation/Series: NATO EXERCISE NORTHERN WEDDING '86 Country: Unknown

An RHIB (Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat) in action (March 1990).

060909-N-9851B-003. Base: Usns John Ericsson (TAO-194)

DA-SC-87-01676. Subject Operation/Series: GALLANT EAGLE 86 State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

ARABIAN SEA (Oct. 15, 2020) While under Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) tasking, a boarding team from the guided-missile destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill (DDG 81) provides food and water to an Iranian-flagged dhow in distress in the Arabian Sea. The boarding team transited to the distressed vessel via a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) and conducted an initial seaworthiness inspection and to assist the mariners with provisions. Winston S. Churchill remained on scene until Omani authorities could arrive and render further assistance to get the vessel underway.

220930-N-ZQ263-1094 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 30, 2022) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), USS John Finn (DDG 113), USS Wayne E. Meyer (DDG 108), and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Bunker Hill (CG 52) sail in formation as part of a strait transit exercise during scheduled operations with Nimitz Carrier Strike Group (NIMCSG). The NIMCSG is enhancing mission readiness through simulated real-world scenarios and demonstrating their ability to perform as an integrated unit. Chung-Hoon is operating with NIMCSG in preparation for an upcoming deployment.

220528-N-N3764-2002Caribbean Sea - (May 28, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Billings (LCS 15) Gold crew, embarked with Capt. Todd Peters, Commodore, Mine Division 2, conduct small operations in the Caribbean Sea, May 28, 2022. Billings is deployed to the U.S. 4th Fleet area of operations to support Joint Interagency Task Force South’s mission, which includes counter-illicit drug trafficking missions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific.

220516-N-TT059-1006 GULF OF OMAN (May 16, 2022) An interdiction team from guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) boards a fishing vessel May 16. The vessel was seized while transiting international waters in the Gulf of Oman.

U.S. Marines aboard rigid hull, inflatable boats prepare to deploy onto Expeditionary Mobile Base USS Miguel Keith (ESB-5) during a visit board search and seizure exercise in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 17, 2022. The 31st MEU maintains the capability to seize and clear ships while at sea to protect themselves and allies in the Indo-Pacific Region. 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 INDOPACOM region.

Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napiers small boat prepares to rendezvous with a Dominican Republic Navy vessel during the repatriation of 53 migrants to Dominican Republic, Jan. 12, 2023. The migrant group was interdicted in the Mona Passage by Puerto Rico Police marine units, the Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection multi-role enforcement aircraft the night of Jan. 10, 2024 near Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico.

120815-N-ZZ999-001 ARABIAN SEA (Aug. 15, 2012) Sailors assigned to the guided-missile cruiser USS Hue City (CG 66) come alongside to assist the Iranian-flagged dhow M/V Payam. Hue City provided medical assistance, food, water and fuel to the vessel after it had issued a distress call. Hue City 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.

US Coast Guard cutter NAUSHON is escorted by one of the Canadian Navy Patrol boats in support of Exercise NORTHERN EDGE 2001 in Ketchikan, Alaska. Northern Edge is Alaska's premier joint training exercise and it encompasses military troops from all over North America. The exercise takes place all over the state of Alaska and it last for two weeks. Subject Operation/Series: NORTHERN EDGE 2001 Base: Naushon State: Alaska (AK) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A U.S. Coast Guard Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) 26-foot over-the-horizon small boat crew conducts a passenger transfer with Fijian shipriders from the Republic Fiji Navy, Ministry of Fisheries, Fiji Immigration, and Fiji Revenue and Customs Services, to conduct a fishery boarding in the Fiji Exclusive Economic Zone in the South Pacific Ocean, Feb. 15, 2024. Partnering together, the U.S. Coast Guard and Fijian officials are strengthening maritime governance and preserving maritime sovereignty. Coast Guard

Coast Guardsmen from Port Security Unit 307 conduct seaward security for Department of Defense assets and personnel at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, April 25, 2022.. During the nine-month deployment, unit operations focused on maritime defense, providing more than 30,000 hours of around-the-clock waterside and shore side anti-terrorism and force protection. U.S. Coast Guardphoto by Lt. Cmdr. Glenn Sanchez.

Coast Guard Cutters - Northland (WMEC 904) - 26-HK-76-59. CGC Northland ops-- Coast Guardsmen on RHI boat boarding ship by ladder, with cutter in background-- 051710. Hurricane Katrina

220710-N-IV962-1271PACIFIC OCEAN (July 10, 2022) - Amphibious Combat Vehicles (ACV) with the 3d Assault Amphibian Battalion, 1st Marine Division, approach the well deck of amphibious transport dock ship USS Anchorage (LPD 23), July 10. ACVs used in amphibious operations amplify the Navy-Marine Corps team to operate in a realistic, combined-arms environment to enhance naval warfighting tactics, techniques and procedures. Makin Island is currently underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

120716-N-NW961-103HONOLULU (July 16, 2012) Sailors assigned to Maritime Expeditionary Security Squadron (MSRON) 9 maneuver during the a Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012 exercise. Twenty-two nations, more than 40 ships and submarines, more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel are participating in the RIMPAC exercise from June 29 to Aug. 3, in and around the Hawaiian Islands. The world's largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC provides a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain the cooperative relationships that are critical to ensuring the safety of sea lanes and security on the world's oceans. RIMPAC 2012 is the 23rd exercise in the series that began in 1971.

Troopers from the Michigan State Police prepare to board a ferry in the Straits of Mackinac during a full-scale exercise April 27, 2022. The exercise, tested the ability of law enforcement and emergency medical personnel to secure a commercial vessel and treat injured people in the event of an incident. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Chief Petty Officer John Masson.

Divers spending a surface interval, Christmas Island, Australia, Asia

230106-N-NO146-1001 GULF OF OMAN (Jan. 6, 2023) A boarding team from patrol coastal ship USS Chinook (PC 9) approaches a fishing vessel in international waters of the Gulf of Oman, Jan. 6. U.S. naval forces seized 2,116 AK-47 assault rifles from a fishing vessel transiting along a maritime route from Iran to Yemen.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (April 16, 2022) - Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class David Cox, left, fires a .50-caliber machine gun during a live-fire exercise aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78), April 16, 2022. Porter, forward-deployed to Rota, Spain, is currently underway 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.

220925-N-XB010-1001 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Sept. 25, 2022) - Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18), Naval Beach Unit (NBU) 7, and Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (NMCB) 4, and Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), enjoy a “swim call” while in the South China Sea. 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.

110717-N-DS193-008INDIAN OCEAN (July 17,2011) An MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Island Knights of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 25 delivers supplies from the Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Rappahannock (T-AO 204) during a replenishment at sea.

050429-N-5526M-028. Country: Gulf Of Aden

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