200511-N-PI330-0042 GULF OF ADEN (May 11, 2020) Fire Controlman 2nd Class Hayden Gassman cycles ammunition through a close-in weapons system to conduct an ammunition download prior to conducting maintenance aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72), May 11, 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)