MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Jan. 1, 2024) An AV-8B Harrier from Marine Medium Tilt Rotor Squadron (VMM) 162 (Reinforced) taxies for takeoff from the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) during flight operations in the Mediterranean Sea, Jan. 1, 2024. Bataan is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S. allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Riley Gasdia)