GULF OF ADEN (July 12, 2021) The amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7), left, and guided-missile destroyers USS Halsey (DDG 97) and USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) operate in formation in the Gulf of Aden, July 12. Iwo Jima, Halsey and The Sullivans are 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 1st Class Rawad Madanat)