PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 26, 2021) The amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans (LPD 18), sails near Palau prior to a counter-mine exercise in the Pacific Ocean, Feb. 26, 2021. The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) is operating aboard ships of the Amphibious Squadron 11 in the 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)