180101-N-ZS023-003 MAKASSAR STRAIT (Jan. 1, 2018) Aircraft assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 161 (Reinforced) and the “Wildcards” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 aboard the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) are chained down on the flight deck as the ship transits through the Makassar Strait. America, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, with embarked 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the Indo-Asia Pacific region to strengthen partnerships and serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Vance Hand/Released)