GULF OF ADEN (July 5, 2021) An MV-22B Osprey tiltrotor aircraft attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced) takes off from the flight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) during flight operations in the Gulf of Aden, July 5, 2021. Iwo Jima is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Jessica Kibena)