180828-N-NB142-0464 INDIAN OCEAN (Aug. 28, 2018) An F-35B Lightning II attached to the “Avengers” of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 211, prepares to launch from the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) during a scheduled deployment of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) and the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). The Essex ARG/13th MEU is a capable and lethal Navy-Marine Corps team deployed to the 7th fleet area of operations to support regional stability, reassure partners and allies and maintain a presence postured to respond to any crisis ranging from humanitarian assistance to contingency operations. The Essex ARG and 13th MEU is the first continental U.S. Navy/Marine Corps team to deploy with the new and increased multi-mission capabilities of the F-35B Lightning II, ultimately increasing the lethality and survivability of the amphibious force. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Chandler Harrell/Released)