160214-N-CJ186-187 ARABIAN GULF (Feb. 14, 2016) A ridged hull inflatable boat, launched from the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Russell (DDG 59), participates in a monthly Iraqi bilateral exercise. The Iraqi bilateral is a monthly exercise with U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, and the Iraqi navy. The U.S. participates in bilateral exercises with partner nations in order to build and strengthen solid partnerships throughout the region. Commander, Task Force 55 controls surface forces including U.S. Navy coastal patrol craft and U.S Coast Guard patrols boats in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy Combat Camera photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Torrey W. Lee/Released)