190206-N-AN781-1325 PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 6, 2019) An F-35B Lightning II attached to the Avengers of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 launches from the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during a deployment of 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 operation 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)