EAST CHINA SEA (May 15, 2021) Chief Boatswain's Mate Joao Moreira, from Patterson, N.J., observes a landing craft, air cushion (LCAC) approach the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) during operations alongside the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) during the second day of ARC 21, a multinational series of underway exercises involving the U.S., French, and Australian Navies and the JMSDF. New Orleans, part of the America Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of responsibility 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. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Desmond Parks)