PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 5, 2021) An unmanned aerial vehicle operator supporting the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, prepares to recover a VBAT Unmanned Aerial System aboard the amphibious transport dock USS Portland (LPD 27), Sept. 5, 2021. Portland, part of the Essex Amphibious Ready Group, along with the 11th MEU, 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. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Alexis Flores)