GULF OF OMAN (Sept. 25, 2023) Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Mason Whitehead signals to an AV-8B Harrier aircraft to launch off the flight deck of the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) in the Gulf of Oman, Sept. 25, 2023. Components of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group and 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable) are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Riley Gasdia)