191029-N-FV739-0344 SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 29, 2019) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Montgomery (LCS 8) and the Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Millinocket (T-EPF 3) break formation during a photo exercise (PHOTOEX) 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)