PACIFIC OCEAN (May 22, 2021) A phone-and-distance line connects the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force replenishment ship JS Hamana (AOE-424) to the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during a replenishment-at-sea, May 22, 2021. America, lead ship of the America Amphibious Ready Group, 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 Shelby M. Tucker)