ARABIAN SEA (Sept. 15, 2021) A Landing Craft, Air Cushion, attached to Assault Craft Unit Five (ACU 5), departs from the well deck of the amphibious transport dock ship USS Portland (LPD 27). Portland and the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet are of operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and the Pacific through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic choke points. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Devin Kates)