ARABIAN GULF (Sept. 26, 2021) Aviation Boatswain�s Mate (Fuel) Airman Sahabettin Cimbat checks fuel quality of a landing craft, air cushion attached to Assault Craft Unit Five (ACU 5) during well deck operations aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2). ACU 5 is deployed with Essex and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit 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 Sea and the Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John McGovern)