180312-N-RI884-0389

180312-N-RI884-0389 EAST CHINA SEA (March 12, 2018) An F-35B Lighting II assigned to the "Green Knights" of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 takes off from the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp (LHD 1) during flight operations in the Indo-Pacific region. VMFA-121 is assigned to the Okinawa-based 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (31st MEU). The Wasp Expeditionary Strike Group is conducting a regional patrol meant to strengthen regional alliances, provide rapid-response capability, and advance the Up-Gunned ESG concept. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Daniel Barker/Released)