180817-N-NB142-0362 SULU SEA (Aug. 17, 2018) An F-35B Lightning II attached to the Avengers of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211 launches from the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) 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 2nd Class Chandler Harrell/Released)