INDIAN OCEAN (Dec. 18, 2021) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) transits the Indian Ocean, Dec. 18, 2021. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Isaiah M. Williams)