PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 6, 2021) A U.S. Navy landing craft, air cushion (LCAC), with Naval Beach Unit (NBU) 7, and a U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper helicopter assigned to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 262 (Reinforced), 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), approach the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) in the Philippine Sea, Feb. 6, 2021. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of the America Expeditionary Strike Group in the U.S. 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Dominic Clay)