190206-N-AN781-1091 PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 6, 2019) An MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft attached to the “Sea Elks” of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced) launches from the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during a deployment of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). The Essex ARG/13th MEU is deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to support regional stability, reassure partners and allies, and maintain a presence postured to respond to any crisis ranging from humanitarian assistance to contingency operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class William Phillips/Released)