190329-N-GC639-1083 ARABIAN GULF (March 23, 2019) An aircraft launches from the flight deck of the Aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74) while conducting flight operations in the Arabian Gulf, March 29, 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 1st Class Ryan D. McLearnon/Released)