211101-N-FA490-1333

SOUTH CHINA SEA (Nov. 1, 2021) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Jackson (LCS 6) and rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RIB) transit the South China Sea during a search and rescue exercise (SAREX). Jackson, part of Destroyer Squadron Seven, is on a rotational deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operation to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Andrew Langholf)