photo #1758710

Amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2), front, transits the Indian Ocean with guided-missile destroyer USS O’Kane (DDG 77). Essex, the flagship of Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG), along with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), is operating in U.S. 7th Fleet to enhance interoperability with alliances and partners and serve as a ready response force to ensure maritime security and a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist