190125-N-SA412-0173 EAST CHINA SEA (Jan 25, 2019) An F-35B Lightning II assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121, the fixed wing component of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Aviation Combat Element, takes off from the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) to participate in a joint air defense exercise with U.S. Air Force aircraft. Wasp, flagship of Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, with embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the Indo-Pacific region to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Galbreath/Released)