200403-N-VP266-1036 STRAIT OF HORMUZ (April 3, 2020) The amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) transits the Strait of Hormuz, April 3, 2020. Bataan, with the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and with embarked 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), is deployed to the 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Griffin Kersting/Released)