200506-N-GR168-1043 ARABIAN GULF (May 6, 2020) The guided-missile destroyer USS Stout (DDG 55) operates in the Arabian Gulf, May 6, 2020. Stout, currently supporting the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, 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 the Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Lyle Wilkie/Released)