PHILIPPINE SEA (Sep. 20, 2021) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) conducts a division tactics exercise with Royal New Zealand Navy ships HMNZS AOTEAROA (A11) and HMNZS TE KAHA (F77). Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron Seven, is on a rotational deployment, is 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 free and open Indo-Pacific region. (Royal New Zealand Navy courtesy photo)