USS Blue Ridge conducts flight ops in South China Sea

Aviation Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Jonathan Zazueta signals the crew of an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 12, aboard U.S. 7th Fleet flagship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) in the South China Sea, March 23, 2026. Blue Ridge and embarked U.S. 7th Fleet staff conduct regular Indo-Pacific patrols to deter aggression, strengthen alliances and partnerships, and advance future warfighting capabilities. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Zachary Del Rio)