170420-N-ME988-066 U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (April 20, 2017) Sailors assigned to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Akizuki-class destroyer JS Teruzuki (DD 116) climb a pilot ladder to board the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) during Counter-piracy Validation Exercise 2017. The exercise provided an opportunity for the U.S. Navy to partner with ships from the Republic of Korea Navy, Royal Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force to enhance interoperability through communication and counter-piracy operation drills. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Darren M. Moore/Released)