BAY OF BENGAL (Oct. 12, 2021) The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Lake Champlain (CG 57) transits the Bay of Bengal during a live-fire exercise as part of MALABAR 2021, Oct. 12, 2021. MALABAR 2021 is a maritime exercise designed to improve integration, address common maritime security priorities and concerns, enhance interoperability and communication, and strengthen enduring relationships between the Royal Australian Navy, Indian Navy, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, and U.S. maritime forces. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Josiah J. Kunkle)