SOUTH CHINA SEA (June 11, 2021) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) fires its Mark 110 57 mm weapons system during a regular operational exercise in the South China Sea, June 11, 2021. Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, 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 3rd Class Adam Butler)