PHILIPPINE SEA (Feb. 3, 2022) A U.S. Marine assigned to Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 214, 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), loads ordnance onto AV-8B Harriers attached to VMA-214, 11th MEU, on the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) in support of Exercise Noble Fusion, Feb. 3, 2022. Noble Fusion demonstrates that Navy and Marine Corps forward-deployed, stand-in naval expeditionary forces can operate as a Marine Expeditionary Unit/Amphibious Ready Group team at sea, along with a carrier strike group, in order to conduct lethal sea-denial operations, seize key maritime terrain, guarantee freedom of movement, and create advantage for U.S., partner, and allied forces. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Jennessa Davey)