190103-N-OM854-1220 ARABIAN GULF (Jan. 3, 3019) An F/A-18E Super Hornet assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 14 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) as the French navy air defense destroyer FS Cassard (D 614) traits alongside John C. Stennis in the Arabian Gulf, Jan. 3, 2019. The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike 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 and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Grant G. Grady/Released)