170411-N-MG079-079 ARABIAN GULF (April 11, 2017) An F/A-18E Super Hornet attached to the "Tomcatters" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 31 prepares for launch the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77). George H.W. Bush is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of maritime security operations designed 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 2nd Class Patrick Ian Crimmins/Released)