200429-N-PI330-0030 GULF OF ADEN (Apr. 29, 2020) Boatswain�s Mate 3rd Class Alejandro Quintana signals for a rigid-hull inflatable boat to be lowered over the side of the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72), April 29, 2020. Vella Gulf is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility 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)