191029-N-FV739-0250 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 29, 2019) The Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Millinocket (T-EPF 3), the Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Montgomery (LCS 8) and an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Wildcards of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 assemble in formation for a photo exercise in support of Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei. This year marks the 25th iteration of CARAT, a multinational exercise designed to enhance U.S. and partner navies' abilities to operate together in response to traditional and non-traditional maritime security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Christopher A. Veloicaza/Released)