PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 31, 2024) An F-35C Lightning II assigned to the "Warhawks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 97 prepares to launch off the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) during Multi-Large Deck Event (MLDE), Jan. 31, 2024. The event comprising Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group, Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force is designed to advance combined readiness between Japan and U.S. maritime forces while simultaneously demonstrating our commitment to our partners and allies in the Indo-Pacific. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Adina Phebus)