SOUTH CHINA SEA (Jan. 22, 2022) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) transits the South China Sea at full power during routine operations. Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operation to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan M. Breeden)