200321-N-PI330-0308 GULF OF AIDEN (March 21, 2020) The guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) sails through the Gulf of Aiden on March 21, 2020. Vella Gulf is deployed to 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 Sea and Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and the three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Waters/Released)