170619-N-TB410-0055 ARABIAN GULF (June 19, 2017) The guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72) conducts a replenishment-at-sea with the French navy Durance-class replenishment tanker FS Var (A608) during Exercise Spartan Kopis 17. The Task Force 55-led exercise between the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard is designed to increase tactical proficiency, broaden levels of cooperation, enhance mutual capability and support long-term security and stability in the region. Vella Gulf is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to reassure allies and partners, and preserve the freedom of navigation and the free flow of commerce in the region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Joshua Bryce Bruns/Released)