PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 28, 2022) A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft attached to Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 265 (Reinforced), prepares for take off from the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6), Jan. 28, 2022 in the Philippine Sea. The 31st MEU is operating aboard ships of America Expeditionary Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Malik Lewis)