BALTIC SEA (June 15, 2024) Rear Adm. David Walt, commander of Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 2, observes landing craft, air cushion operations in the upper vehicle storage area of the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1), June 15, 2024, in the Baltic Sea. Wasp is conducting operations in the Baltic Sea in support of the exercise Baltic Operations 2024 (BALTOPS 24) as the flagship of the Wasp Amphibious Ready Group (WSP ARG)-24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) Special Operations Capable (SOC). BALTOPS 24 is the premier maritime focused military exercise in the Baltic Region. The exercise, led by U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, and executed by Naval Striking and Support Forces NATO, provides a unique training opportunity to strengthen combined response capabilities critical to preserving freedom of navigation and security in the Baltic Sea. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Troy Davis)