240131-N-ES141-1013

240131-N-ES141-1013 PHILIPPINE SEA (Jan. 31, 2024) The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force helicopter destroyer JS Ise (DDH 182), front, and the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), sail in formation during multi large deck event (MLDE) held in the Philippine Sea, Jan. 31. MLDE provides the U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self Defense force an opportunity to engage in joint operations to include enhanced maritime communication operations, air warfare operations and cross-deck flight operations to strengthen maritime integrated-at-sea operations and combat readiness. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Robert Hicks)