SOUTH CHINA SEA (Feb. 5, 2023) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) sails alongside the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Takanami-class destroyer JS Makinami (DD 112) during combined operations in the South China Sea. Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron 7, is on a rotational deployment, operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with Allies and 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 Daniel Serianni)