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PHILIPPINE SEA (Sep. 20, 2021) The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18), right, sails alongside the Royal New Zealand Navy auxiliary ship HMNZS Aotearoa (A11), prior to a replenishment-at-sea. Charleston, part of Destroyer Squadron Seven, is on a rotational deployment, is operating in the U.S. 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force in support of free and open Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Ryan M. Breeden)