181021-N-NI420-1006 ARABIAN SEA (Oct. 21, 2018) CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters, attached to the “Sea Elks�? of Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 166 (Reinforced), prepare for 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 and 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU). USS Essex is a flexible, and persistent Navy-Marine Corps team deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operation in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Molly DiServio/Released)