180325-N-XK398-113 WATERS OFF THE COAST OF JAPAN (March 25, 2018) Amphibious assault vehicles assigned to Combat Assault Battalion, AAV Company, depart the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) to conduct an amphibious integration training mechanized raid. Ashland is part of the Wasp Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG), which is operating in the Indo-Pacific region to enhance interoperability with partners, serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency and advance the up-gunned ESG concept. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Joshua Mortensen/Released)