250520-G-NO824-1045

The Philippine Navy’s Gregorio del Pilar-class patrol ship BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PS-16), front left, the Legend-class USCGC Stratton (WMSL 752), middle, and Philippine Coast Guard Teresa Magbanua-class patrol vessel BRP Melchora Aquino (MRRV-9702) sail together in the Sulu Sea, May 20, 2025. Stratton is deployed and assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force. The U.S. Coast Guard has operated in the Indo-Pacific for more than 150 years, and the service is increasing efforts through targeted bilateral patrols with our national security cutters, fast response cutters, and other activities conducted in support of maritime missions to enhance our regional partnerships. (Courtesy photo)