SOUTH CHINA SEA (Oct. 14, 2021) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18), left, pulls alongside the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198) prior to an underway replenishment. Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment 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. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan M. Breeden)