PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 22, 2022) The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Hyuga (DDH 181), left, and the Wasp-Class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) steam in formation with the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during a formation exercise. Operating as part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Essex and America, along with Hyuga, are conducting training to preserve and protect a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Thomas Contant)