190125-N-SA412-0191 EAST CHINA SEA (Jan 25, 2019) --

190125-N-SA412-0191 EAST CHINA SEA (Jan 25, 2019) -- An F-35B Lightning II jet belonging to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121, the fixed wing component of 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit's Aviation Combat Element, takes off to participate in a joint air defense exercise with U.S. Air Force aircraft. Wasp, flagship of Wasp Amphibious Ready Group, with embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, is operating in the Indo-Pacific region to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response force for any type of contingency. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Sean Galbreath)