GULF OF OMAN (Feb. 17, 2021) The guided-missile cruiser USS Port Royal (CG 73) transits the Gulf of Oman. Port Royal is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean Sea and Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three critical chokepoints to the free flow of global commerce. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Indra Beaufort)