181116-N-IL409-0108 PHILIPPINE SEA (Nov. 16, 2018) An E-2C Hawkeye with Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 117 prepares to take off from the flight deck aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). John C. Stennis is underway and conducting operations in international waters as part of a dual carrier strike force exercise. The U.S. Navy has patrolled the Indo-Pacific region routinely for more than 70 years promoting regional security, stability and prosperity. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joshua L. Leonard/Released)