PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 22, 2022) The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ship JS Hyuga (DDH 181), front, 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). Operating as part of U.S. Pacific Fleet, Essex and America, along with JS Hyuga, are conducting training to preserve and protect a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd class Theodore Lee)