ADRIATIC SEA (July 11, 2023) The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78), the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61), the Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser USS Normandy (CG 60), the Italian navy Carlo Bergamini-class frigate ITS Carabiniere (F 593), and the Croatian navy patrol craft HRVS Dubrovnik (PC 42) steam in formation during a photo exercise conducted for Neptune Strike, July 11, 2023. Normandy is part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests. GRFCSG is currently participating in Neptune Strike, a multiyear effort focused on harmonizing U.S. and NATO planning teams to transfer command and control of Allied naval and amphibious forces to STRIKFORNATO, in order to provide assurance, deterrence, and collective defense for the Alliance. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Malachi Lakey)