PHILIPPINE SEA (June 13, 2021) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Tulsa (LCS 16) conducts routine flight operations while transiting in the Philippine Sea. Tulsa, part of Destroyer Squadron Seven, is on a rotational deployment operating in the U.S. 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Colby A. Mothershead)