180816-N-RP442-0095 SULU SEA (Aug. 16, 2018) The Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) transits the Sulu Sea during Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) 2018. CARAT Malaysia, in its 24th iteration, is designed to enhance information sharing and coordination, build mutual warfighting capability and support long-term regional cooperation enabling both partner armed forces to operate effectively together as a unified maritime force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jenna Dobson/Released)