PHILLIPPINE SEA (March 28, 2022) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18), right, conducts a division tactic (DIVTAC) exercise with the French frigate FS Vend'miaire (F 734) in the Philippine Sea. Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations 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 Mineman 1st Class Philip Dalton)