Naval Recovery Missions

Sailors operating inflatable boats for recovery tests and drills, focusing on operations involving the Orion spacecraft in oceanic environments.

U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class William Verdun, assigned to the Famous-class medium endurance cutter USCGC Mohawk (WMEC 913), conducts a LA51 warning device shoot from the Over the Horizon (OTH) cutter boat in the Atlantic Ocean, Aug. 5, 2022. USCGC Mohawk is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Africa area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

From the USS John P. Murtha, Engineman 2nd Class Christian Maldonado, at right, reaches for a tending line that Seaman Dante Jones, at left, will grab. The crew will then attach the line to the test version of the Orion capsule to help guide into the ship's well deck during Underway Recovery Test-7 (URT-7) on Nov. 1, 2018. URT-7 is one in a series of tests to verify and validate procedures and hardware that will be used to recover the Orion spacecraft after it splashes down in the Pacific Ocean following deep space exploration missions. Orion will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities.

220813-N-TT639-1161 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 13, 2022) - Sailors assigned to amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) operate a seven-meter rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) in the Philippine Sea during, Aug. 13, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

PACIFIC OCEAN (July 6, 2013) Sailors from the aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73) use a rigid-hull inflatable boat during a man overboard drill. George Washington and its embarked air wing, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5, provide a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interest of the U.S. and its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

Artemis II Orion Underway Recovery Test 10 (URT-10) - Day 3. Navy divers from Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Expeditionary Support Unit 1 work to secure the Orion Crew Module Test Article (CMTA) in the Pacific Ocean as part of NASAs Underway Recovery Test 10 (URT-10). The divers are trained in open water and small boat procedures and will be the team to help Artemis astronauts exit the Orion spacecraft and make it safely to the recovery ship after splashdown in addition to preparing the spacecraft to be transported back inside the recovery ship.

060831-N-7596J-023. Base: USS Cowpens (CG 63)

U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class William Verdun, assigned to the Famous-class medium endurance cutter USCGC Mohawk (WMEC 913), conducts a LA51 warning device shoot from the Over the Horizon (OTH) cutter boat in the Atlantic Ocean, Aug. 5, 2022. USCGC Mohawk is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Africa area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

220512-O-NR876-853SEA OF JAPAN (May 12, 2022) Sailors began to transit outbound in the 7m rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RIB) from the Independence-class littoral combat ship USS Charleston (LCS 18) after being launched from the side of Charleston during Exercise Noble Vanguard. Noble Vanguard serves as an enabler to reinforce tactics and techniques of different mission sets that contribute to regional stability.

USS REUBEN JAMES (FFG 57) on the left and Chilean tug GALVARINO (ATF 66) on right are anchored together off the coast of Antofagasta, Chile, during re-fueling operations while participating in Exercise TEAMWORK SOUTH '99. Subject Operation/Series: TEAMWORK SOUTH '99 Base: USS Reuben James (FFG 57)

Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napiers small boat prepares to rendezvous with a Dominican Republic Navy vessel during the repatriation of 53 migrants to Dominican Republic, Jan. 12, 2023. The migrant group was interdicted in the Mona Passage by Puerto Rico Police marine units, the Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection multi-role enforcement aircraft the night of Jan. 10, 2024 near Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico.

U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Jacob Pollard, a storekeeper aboard USCGC Bear (WMEC 901), fires the .50 caliber gun during a gunnery exercise in Operation Nanook, Northern Atlantic Ocean, Aug. 5, 2022. Pollard was one of four Coast Guard gunners who engaged the weapon during the exercise.

220427-N-TT059-1096 ARABIAN SEA (Apr. 27, 2022) Indian Navy sailors climb aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) during a bilateral training exercise with the Indian Navy's guided-missile frigate INS Trishul (F 43). USS Momsen is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy's largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet's principal surface force, and is underway supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The Cutter Boat Large (CBL) assigned to the Famous-class medium endurance cutter USCGC Mohawk (WMEC 913) conducts boat operations in the Atlantic Ocean, July 22, 2022. USCGC Mohawk is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Africa area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. -- Off Florida's central east coast, support boats from a training exercise, known as Mode VIII, return to the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Kingfisher, from Port Canaveral, Fla. In support of, and with logistical support from, NASA, USSTRATCOM is hosting a major exercise involving Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, search and rescue (SAR) forces, including the 45th Space Wing at Patrick Air Force Base, which support space shuttle astronaut bailout contingency operations, known as Mode VIII. This exercise tests SAR capabilities to locate, recover and provide medical treatment for astronauts following a space shuttle launch phase open-ocean bailout. Participants include members of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Air Force, and NASA's Kennedy Space Center and Johnson Space Center.

DN-SC-87-08284. Country: Gulf Of Mexico

PHILIPPINE SEA (April 20, 2022) Sailors conduct a live-fire exercise on the fantail aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

110623-N-KB666-075VALPARAISO, Chile (June 23, 2011) Navy divers assigned to Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2 and divers assigned to the Armada de Chile prepare to conduct dive operations off the coast of Valparaiso, Chile. MDSU-2 is participating in Navy Dive Southern Partnership Station, a multi-national partnership engagement designed to increase interoperability and partner nation capability through diving operations.

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) is seen in the distance of a fishing vessel in the South Pacific Ocean, Feb. 26, 2024. U.S. Coast Guard and Vanuatu Fishery Department and Police Maritime Wing officers are collaborating to conduct fishery boardings in the Vanuatu Exclusive Economic Zone, which combats illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing in the region. Coast Guard

A small boat crew from USCGC Oak (WLM 211) gets underway during a search and rescue drill off the coast of Nuuk, Greenland, July 7, 2022. The drill is part of Exercise Argus, an annual training event designed to enhance capabilities of international partners for responding to search and rescue and marine environmental events in the Arctic region. U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Diana Sherbs.

PHILIPPINE SEA (June 21, 2022) Sailors in a rigid-hull inflatable boat rescue a simulated casualty during a search and rescue drill for the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. 5TH FLEET AREA OF OPERATIONS (May 11, 2018) Lt. j.g. Stuart Sloat, right, and Information Systems Technician 2nd Class Andrew Potter participate in a search and rescue swimmer training exercise as the guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) transits the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. Arleigh Burke is deployed as part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group.

SAN DIEGO, Calif. - The Orion boilerplate test vehicle floats in the Pacific Ocean near the USS Anchorage during Underway Recovery Test 3. U.S. Navy divers and other recovery team members in two Zodiac boats attach tether lines to Orion. Other recovery team members are nearby in two rigid hull inflatable boats. NASA, Lockheed Martin and U.S. Navy personnel are conducting the recovery test to prepare for recovery of the Orion crew module on its return from a deep space mission. The test allows the teams to demonstrate and evaluate the recovery processes, procedures, hardware and personnel in open waters.The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program is conducting the underway recovery tests. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry astronauts to destinations not yet explored by humans, including an asteroid and Mars. It will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities. The first u

060829-N-8604L-103. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

220913-N-NQ285-1265ATLANTIC OCEAN (Sept. 13, 2022) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) collect information on small craft acting as hostile contacts during a simulated strait transit for Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT), Sept. 13, 2022. Ramage is underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group conducting SWATT exercises to increase lethality, ensure combat readiness, and promote tactical innovation. SWATT is led by the Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center whose mission is to increase the tactical proficiency and lethality of the surface force.

Members of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team conduct security operations from a Zodiac boat off the stern of the guided missile cruiser USS BELKNAP (CG 26). President George H.W. Bush is in Malta for a December 2-3 summit meeting with Soviet Chairman Mikhail Gorbachev. Base: Marsaxlokk Bay Country: Malta (MLT)

220611-N-TT059-1150 ARABIAN SEA (June 11, 2022) Sailors secure the fuel pump during a replenishment-at-sea with the dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10) aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Momsen (DDG 92) in the Arabian Sea, June 11. Momsen is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 5, 2013) Sailors from the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) ride in rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB) during a visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS) team training exercise. Carter Hall is participating in Composite Training Unit Exercise (COMPTUEX) off the East Coast of the U.S. in preparation for a deployment this spring.

Diver getting ready to plunge into the ocean at Tubbataha Reef

120131-N-QM601-019 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Jan. 31, 2012) Sailors and Marines board an 11-meter rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) from the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York (LPD 21) as part of an enhanced visit, board, search and seizure training evolution during Certification Exercise. The exercise is the final qualification for the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (24th MEU) and the Iwo Jima Amphibious Ready Group before their scheduled spring deployment.

120405-N-RI884-171PACIFIC OCEAN (April 5, 2012) A rigid-hull inflatable boat pulls alongside the guided-missile destroyer USS Paul Hamilton (DDG 60) during maritime exercise Koa Kai 12-2. Koa Kai is a semi-annual exercise in the waters around Hawaii designed to prepare independently deploying ships in multiple warfare areas and provide training in a multi-ship environment.

PACIFIC OCEAN (Aug. 3, 2014) Sailors from the amphibious transport dock ship USS Anchorage (LPD 23) and Navy divers assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 11, Mobile Diving and Salvage Company 11-7, participate in the second underway recovery test for the NASA Orion Program. This is the second at-sea testing for the Orion crew module using a welldeck recovery method.

220530-N-XR893-2077 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (May 30, 2022) Sailors assigned to USS Bainbridge (DDG 96), sail the Mediterranean Sea for a visit-board search and seizure exercise, May 30, 2022. Bainbridge is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied and Partner interests.

A Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force rescue swimmer prepares to operate a motored raft deployed from a ShinMaywa US-2 assigned to the JMSDFs Air Patrol Squadron 71 during a training flight off the coast of Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, April 5, 2022. U.S. Special Operations and Japanese Self Defense Forces ability to work together, utilizing abilities like the US-2s amphibious airpower, is essential to being able to provide rescue and humanitarian response in a region covered by water and outlying islands.

Coast Guard Cutter Pablo Valent's small boat rescue crew saves people in the water 50 miles off Little Torch Key, Florida, Nov. 19, 2022. The people were wearing lifejackets, which saved their lives.

221016-N-AL206-1271 ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 16, 2022) The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS McFaul (DDG 74) conducts small boat operations while underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group. The first-in-class aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is on its inaugural deployment conducting training and operations along NATO allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict-free Atlantic region.

Fijian shipriders from the Republic Fiji Navy, Ministry of Fisheries, Fiji Immigration, and Fiji Revenue and Customs Services and a U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) boarding team partner together to conduct a fishery boarding in the Fiji Exclusive Economic Zone in the South Pacific Ocean, Feb. 16, 2024. The U.S. Coast Guard remains dedicated to enhance Fijis maritime law enforcement capabilities by assisting Fiji officials with fishery boardings. Coast Guard

Sailors assigned to USS Gerald R. Fords (CVN 78) deck department are lowered into the Atlantic Ocean during small boat operations, April 11, 2022. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and strike group integration as part of the ships tailored basic phase prior to operational deployment.

DN-ST-86-02269. Subject Operation/Series: OCEAN VENTURE '84 Base: Vieques Island Country: Puerto Rico (PRI)

221211-N-LP924-1115 JEREMIE, Haiti (Dec. 11, 2022) Staff Sgt. Ashley Gonzalez, from Sterling Heights, Michigan, assigned to the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), boards a U.S. Coast Guard rigid hull inflatable boat to assist in the set-up of the medical site in Jeremie, Haiti, Dec. 11, 2022. Comfort is deployed to U.S. 4th Fleet in support of Continuing Promise 2022, a humanitarian assistance and goodwill mission conducting direct medical care, expeditionary veterinary care, and subject matter expert exchanges with five partner nations in the Caribbean, Central and South America.

DN-ST-89-02878. Base: Naval Amphib Base, Little Creek State: Virginia (VA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

PACIFIC OCEAN - Sailors assigned to the Los Angeles-class fast-attack submarine USS Annapolis (SSN 760), receive a brow from a Japanese tug boat while mooring alongside Annapolis, May 13. Annapolis is conducting maritime operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to maintain a safe and open Indo-Pacific.

The Sentinel-class fast response cutter USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) accesses the mooring ball in Apra Harbor Sept. 18, 2022, following more than 8,000 nautical mile patrol through Oceania. The U.S. Coast Guard is conducting a routine deployment in Oceania as part of Operation Blue Pacific, working alongside Allies, building maritime domain awareness, and sharing best practices with partner nation navies and coast guards. Op Blue Pacific is an overarching multi-mission U.S. Coast Guard endeavor promoting security, safety, sovereignty, and economic prosperity in Oceania while strengthening relationships with our regional partners. (U.S. Coast Guard photo Petty Officer 2nd Class Sean Ray Blas)

S65-46630 (29 Aug. 1965) --- The Gemini-5 spacecraft is brought aboard the recovery ship, USS Lake Champlain after a successful landing at the end of its mission.

A U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) 26-foot over-the-horizon small boat and crew with Vanuatu shipriders prepare for a passenger transfer in the Vanuatu Exclusive Economic Zone, Feb. 24, 2024. U.S. Coast Guard and Vanuatu Fishery Department and Vanuatu Marine Police Wing are partnering to model good maritime governance and to bolster capacity by working with each other in combating illegal, unreported, unregulated fishing in the Blue Pacific. Coast Guard

Crewmembers from Deck department hang on as USS INCHON'S (MCS-12) RHIB boat is restowed onboard. USS INCHON (MCS-12) (not shown) is currently operating in the Adriatic Sea, in support of Operation Sustain Hope, a joint, combined NATO and U.S. military humanitarian relief effort in conjunction with civilian relief agencies. Operation Sustain Hope is bringing relief to thousands of refugees (not shown) created from the recent unrest in the Kosovo region. Subject Operation/Series: SUSTAIN HOPE Country: Adriatic Sea

Security forces approaching a container ship in the Suez Canal

060909-N-0490C-001. Base: USS Nimitz (CVN 68)

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Oct. 2, 2012) Members of the visit, board, search and seizure team from the guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg (CG 64) depart Gettysburg to conduct a Joint Warrior 12-2 training exercise. Joint Warrior takes place off the coast of Scotland and is designed and led by the joint tactical exercise planning staff in the United Kingdom. It is intended to improve interoperability between allied navies and prepare participants for a role in a joint maritime environment during deployments. Join the conversation on social media using #warfighting.

A motor whaleboat from the dock landing ship USS TORTUGA (LSD-46) underway during the joint service exercise Ocean Venture '93. Subject Operation/Series: OCEAN VENTURE '93 State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Key Largo (WPB 1324) is seen with crew working on the focsle, Atlantic Ocean, Sep. 12, 2022. The cutter was engaging in a towing evolution.

230122-N-XP477-1065 PACIFIC OCEAN (Jan. 22, 2023) - Sailors change parts on a refueling hose aboard amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) Jan. 22, 2023. Tripoli is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

DN-ST-89-02990. Base: USS Conserver (ARS 39)

Sea-Air Rescue swimmer Damage Controlman 3rd Class Anderson is brought back aboard the guide dmissile cruiser USS BUNKER HILL (CG-52) after a man overboard drill. Country: Pacific Ocean(POC)

The Norwegian fast attack craft SKARV (P-990) ties up alongside the destroyer USS HAYLER (DD-997) during BALTOPS 94. The HAYLER is flagship for Baltic Operation '94, the U.S. sponsored annual multinational exercise. Subject Operation/Series: BALTOPS '94 Country: Baltic Sea

061110-N-6397K-005. Base: Persian Gulf

A USCGC Thetis (WMEC 910) boat crew approaches an overcrowded Cuban vessel at sea, Nov. 13, 2022. Thetis completed a 56-day patrol to conduct migrant interdiction operations in support of the Coast Guards Seventh District.

110627-N-OS574-088ATLANTIC OCEAN (June 27, 2011) A landing craft utility assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2 prepares to off-load passengers and equipment onto the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19). Mesa Verde is deployed as part of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, participating in the Spanish Amphibious Landing Exercise (PHIBLEX) off the coast of Spain.

The boat crew of a 26-foot Over-the-Horizon small boat, attached to USCGC Bear (WMEC 901), get underway to respond to a disabled fishing vessel, Atlantic Ocean, Sep. 22, 2022. The Bear was responding to a search-and-rescue case.

Artemis II Orion Underway Recovery Test 10 (URT-10) - Day 4. NASA, Navy, and Air Force personnel practice Artemis recovery procedures in the Pacific Ocean as part of Underway Recovery Test-10 off the coast of San Diego. In this photo Naval helicopter pilots from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 Wildcards lift a pilot in a basket from an inflatable front porch that allows astronauts to be recovered out of the Orion spacecraft. Navy Divers from Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Expeditionary Support Unit 1 are the first to reach the spacecraft after splashdown and will assist the astronauts in getting inside the helicopter baskets prior to be flown back to the recovery ship.

U.S. Air Force pararescuemen assigned to the 31st Rescue Squadron operate a combat rubber raiding craft during a search and rescue training in the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 13, 2022. PJs are trained, equipped and postured to conduct full spectrum personnel recovery operations in both peacetime and combat environments.

Recovery team members observe from inside the USS Anchorage's well deck as a test version of Orion is reeled in from the Pacific Ocean on Sept. 17, 2014, during a test of tools and techniques that will be used to retrieve the spacecraft once it splashes down following Exploration Flight Test-1 (EFT-1). Part of Batch image transfer from Flickr.

Guardian Angel pararescuemen from the 131st Rescue Squadron parachute descend into the ocean May 20, 2021, at Santa Cruz Water Drop Zone, Calif. Airmen, rescue craft and life-support equipment were airdropped by a C-17 Globemaster III, operated by a Hawaii Air National Guard aircrew. Members validated their ability to recover a splashed-downed team of astronauts during a contingency rescue event.

ARABIAN SEA (Nov. 9, 2012) Sailors from the visit, board, search and seizure team assigned to the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109) prepare to approach a fishing vessel as part of a routine visit and assistance. Jason Dunham is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation efforts and support missions for Operation Enduring Freedom.

Pararescuemen and Combat Rescue Officers from the 103rd Rescue Squadron load onto their boat after being dropped from the back of a C-17 Globemaster during a joint training exercise with Human Space Flight Support Detatchment 3 at Marine Core Base Hawaii,March 5 2017.During this training, a rigid inflatible boat (known as a "Hard Duck") was dropped from a C-17 along with several jumpers and an inflatable device known as the "Front Porch".This device is intended to be mated to the Orion spacecraft, and can be used to support astronauts who have made a water landing in the Orion spacecraft following a flight. US Air National Guard

221031-N-RT917-1001 GULF OF AQABA (October 31, 2022) The guided-missile destroyer USS The Sullivans (DDG 68), not pictured, maneuvers alongside an Israeli coastal fast patrol boat in the Gulf of Aqaba, Oct. 31. The Sullivans is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

220910-N-EH998-1136 RED SEA (Sept. 10, 2022) Sailors assigned to guided-missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) conduct visit, board, search, and seizure drills with the Royal Jordanian Navy in the Red Sea, Sept. 10. Nitze is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

Japan Coast Guard ship Kotobiki (PC52) approaches the harbor at MarineCorps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Aug. 9, 2022. JCG Kotobiki (PC52) visitedthe air station to confirm its ability to moor at the harbor for the conductof law-enforcement operations in order to reinforce standard operatingprocedures and maintain interoperability proficiency.

Crewmen aboard the Coast Guard large patrol craft USCGC KISKA (WPB-1336) remove the tie-downs from a rigid-hull inflatable boat during Operation Steel Box. The KISKA is in place to provide security during the delivery of chemical munitions to Johnston Atoll. One of the delivery ships, the Military Sealift Command auxiliary crane ship FLICKERTAIL STATE (T-ACS-5), is in the background beyond the tug boat. Subject Operation/Series: STEEL BOX Country: Pacific Ocean(POC)

111114-N-YZ751-680GULF OF ADEN (Nov. 14, 2011) A visit, board, search and seizure team from the guided-missile destroyer USS Truxtun (DDG 103) conducts an approach and assist visit of a skiff in the Gulf of Aden. Truxtun is assigned to CTF 151, a multi-national, mission-based task force working under Combined Maritime Forces, to conduct counter-piracy operations in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin and Arabian Sea.

Four members of SEAL Team One are shown recovering a Zodiac boat on the aft section of the nuclear-powered attack submarine USS LOUISVILLE (SSN-724) at the conclusion on Operation Varsity Swimmer '93 off the coast of southern California. Subject Operation/Series: VARSITY SWIMMER '93 Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

SAN DIEGO, Calif. - The Orion boilerplate test vehicle floats in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego during a portion of Underway Recovery Test 2. To the right are U.S. Navy personnel in two rigid hull inflatable boats. To the left are U.S. Navy divers in two Zodiac boats. They are preparing to practice techniques to attach a lifting sling to the test vehicle. NASA, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy are conducting the test from the USS Anchorage to prepare for recovery of the Orion crew module on its return from a deep space mission. The underway recovery test will allow the team to demonstrate and evaluate the recovery processes, procedures, new hardware and personnel in open waters.The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program is conducting the underway recovery test. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry astronauts to destinations not yet explored by humans, including an asteroid and Mars. It will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew d

220613-N-BR419-1089 PHILIPPINE SEA (June 13, 2022) Sailors assigned to the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) conduct small boat operations aboard a rigid-hull inflatable boat. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Maritime Security Operations (MSO) team from Arleigh Burke class Guided Missile Destroyer USS MUSTIN (DDG-89) departs on a Rigid Hauled Inflatable Boat (RHIB) to complete a routine boarding of a foreign vessel in the North Arabian Gulf. US and Coalition forces plan and execute MSO to deny terrorists use of the maritime environment in the North Arabian Gulf. MSOs have a multi-layered security posture utilizing a variety of assets to detect, disrupt and destroy terrorist attempts to harm the infrastructure of Iraq. This includes the security and normalization of commercial shipping into and out of Iraq during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Country: Unknown

221106-N-XB010-1012 EAST CHINA SEA (Nov. 6, 2022) - Sailors assigned to the forward-deployed amphibious transport dock ship USS New Orleans (LPD 18) and members of the Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade (ARDB) carry a combat ready raiding craft (CRRC) to the stern gate during a certification for New Orleans Sailors and JSDF in preparation for Keen Sword 23 while in the East China Sea. Keen Sword is a joint, bilateral, biennial field-training exercise involving U.S. military and Japan Self-Defense Force personnel, designed to increase combat readiness and interoperability and strengthen the ironclad Japan-U.S. alliance.

A port quarter view of the patrol combatant missile hydrofoil USS HERCULES (PHM-2) underway alongside the battleship USS IOWA (BB-61) during NATO exercise Northern Wedding '86. Subject Operation/Series: NATO EXERCISE NORTHERN WEDDING '86 Country: Unknown

Crew members from the tank landing ship USS BARNSTABLE COUNTY (LST-1197) head toward the Ecuadorian shore in a landing craft vehicle and personnel during Unitas XXXII, a combined exercise involving the naval forces of the United States and nine South American nations. Subject Operation/Series: UNITAS XXXII Country: Pacific Ocean(POC)

During Underway Recovery Test-7 (URT-7), U.S. Navy divers approach a test version of the Orion capsule to practice securing it for recovery into the well deck of an amphibious assault ship on Oct. 31, 2018 in the Pacific Ocean. The Exploration Ground Systems recovery team and the U.S. Navy work together to verify and validate procedures and hardware that will be used to recover the Orion spacecraft after it splashed down in the Pacific Ocean following deep space exploration missions. Orion will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities.

U.S. Coast Guard members conduct a boarding of a fishing vessel in the Eastern Pacific, August 3, 2022. The Coast Guard completed a counter-illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing operation for the first time under the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organization (SPRFMO). The SPRFMO convention area covers nearly a fourth of the Earths high seas. The SPRFMO Commission consists of 16 members from Asia, Europe, the Americas, and Oceania as well as three cooperating non-contracting parties. (U.S. Coast Guard photo)

SAN DIEGO, Calif. - NASAs Orion boilerplate test vehicle floats in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of San Diego as U.S. Navy personnel practice attaching it to tether lines during a portion of the Underway Recovery Test 2. The U.S. Navys USS Anchorage is ready for recovery nearby.The testing is being conducted to prepare for recovery of the Orion crew module on its return from a deep-space mission. The underway recovery test will allow the team to demonstrate and evaluate the recovery processes, procedures, new hardware and personnel in open waters. The Ground Systems Development and Operations Program is conducting the underway recovery test. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry astronauts to destinations not yet explored by humans, including an asteroid and Mars. It will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep-space return velocities. The first unpiloted test flight of the Orion is scheduled to lau

221030-N-XN177-2044 WESTERN PACIFIC OCEAN (Oct. 30, 2022) - Sailors assigned to amphibious assault carrier USS Tripoli (LHA 7) participate in a swim call Oct. 30, 2022. Tripoli is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and maintain stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napiers small boat rendezvous with a Dominican Republic Navy vessel during the repatriation of 53 migrants to Dominican Republic, Jan. 12, 2023. The migrant group was interdicted in the Mona Passage by Puerto Rico Police marine units, the Coast Guard Cutter Joseph Napier and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection multi-role enforcement aircraft the night of Jan. 10, 2024 near Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico.

240120-N-EJ843-1023 MEDITERRANEAN SEA (Jan. 20, 2024) - Sailors aboard the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black (DDG 119) participate in rigid hull inflatable boat (RHIB) operations, Jan. 20, 2024. Delbert D. Black is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by the U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., Allied, and partner interests.

NORTH CHANNEL (April 2, 2019) Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Porter (DDG 78) use a rigid-hull inflatable boat to do a passenger transfer with the Royal Netherlands Navy Karel Doorman-class multi-purpose frigate HNLMS Van Speijk (F 828) in the North Channel during Joint Warrior 19-1, April 2, 2019. Joint Warrior is a United Kingdom-led, multinational exercise in a robust maritime training environment in which allies and partners can improve interoperability and prepare forces for combined operations.

A member of Sea-Air-Land (SEAL) Team 8 boards a Special Boat Unit 20 (SBU-20) rigid-hull inflatable boat secured alongside the amphibious transport dock USS AUSTIN (LPD-4). Country: Adriatic Sea

A good Samaritan notified Coast Guard Sector Key West watchstanders of a rustic vessel near Marathon Humps, Marathon, Florida, June 7, 2022. The people were repatriated to Cuba on June 11, 2022. (Coast Guard photo by Coast Guard Station Marathon's crew)

Family members of U.S. Marines and Sailors based on Camp Schwab experience a reconnaissance boat ride with 3d Reconnaissance Battalion during In Their Boots” day on Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, Sept. 16, 2022. ”In Their Boots” day was hosted to educate military spouses on Marine Corps training and strengthen community relations.

220926-N-VI910-1093 PACIFIC OCEAN (Sept. 26, 2022) Sailors enter a rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB) aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln is underway conducting routine operations in U.S. 3rd Fleet.

110812-N-YM590-396GULF OF ADEN (Aug. 12, 2011) Members of a visit, board, search and seizure team from the guided-missile cruiser USS Anzio (CG 68) assist mariners aboard a skiff in the Gulf of Aden. The Sailors provided food and water to the distressed mariners. Anzio is on a routine deployment to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.

A U.S. Coast Guard Harriet Lane (WMEC 903) 26-foot over-the-horizon small boat crew and Fijian shipriders from the Republic Fiji Navy, Ministry of Fisheries, Fiji Immigration, and Fiji Revenue and Customs Services, conduct a fishery boarding in the Fiji Exclusive Economic Zone in the South Pacific Ocean, Feb. 15, 2024.The U.S. Coast Guard remains dedicated to enhancing Fijis maritime law enforcement capabilities. Coast Guard

DN-ST-85-08399. Base: San Francisco State: California (CA) Country: United States Of America (USA)

220722-A-EQ028-1029 GULF OF ADEN (July 22, 2022) Sailors prepare to lower a MANTAS T-12 unmanned surface vessel prior to an operations check and maintenance drill aboard the expeditionary sea base USS Lewis B. Puller (ESB 3) in the Gulf of Aden, July 22. Lewis B. Puller is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations to help ensure maritime security and stability in the Middle East region.

U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer 3rd Class Francisco Olalde and Petty Officer 2nd Class Jordan Reynolds, electricians mates (EM), conduct maintenance on the Over the Horizon (OTH) cutter boat aboard the USCGC Mohawk (WMEC 913) while underway in the Atlantic Ocean, Sept. 9, 2022. EMs are responsible for installation, maintenance, repair and management of sophisticated electrical and electronic equipment.

U.S. Navy Gunners Mate 3rd Class Anthony Sanfiliippo, an Alamogordo, New Mexico native and a gunner assigned to USS New Orleans (LPD 18), fires a .50 caliber machine gun during a defense of the amphibious task force exercise aboard USS New Orleans, in the Sea of Japan, Sept. 2, 2022. DATF senarios focus Navy and Marine Corps forces on defending ARG shipping and the drills allowed the ARG-MEU team to improve their proficiency when integrating fires. The 31st MEU is operating aboard the ships of the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group in the 7th fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with allies and partners and serve as a ready response force to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.

Sailors assigned to the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Ramage (DDG 61) conduct small boat operations, Sept. 25, 2022. Ramage is underway as part of the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group for Ford's inaugural deployment conducting training and operations alongside NATO Allies and partners to enhance integration for future operations and demonstrate the U.S. Navys commitment to a peaceful, stable and conflict free Atlantic region.

ATLANTIC OCEAN (Jan. 16, 2013) Simulated small boat threats pass by the high-speed experimental boat Stiletto so Sailors assigned to Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) can observe new technologies in a relevant maritime environment.

Coast Guard Cutters - Dauntless (WMEC 624) - 26-HK-73-33. CGC Dauntless -- Coast Guardsman boarding RHI boat from cutter --050928. Hurricane Katrina

U.S. Navy divers and other personnel in a Zodiac boat secure a harness around a test version of the Orion crew module during Underway Recovery Test 5 in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California. Tether lines will be attached to the test module to help guide it back to the well deck of the USS San Diego. NASA's Ground Systems Development and Operations Program and the U.S. Navy are practicing recovery techniques to prepare for recovery of Orion on its return from deep space missions. The testing will allow the team to demonstrate and evaluate recovery processes, procedures, hardware and personnel in open waters. Orion is the exploration spacecraft designed to carry astronauts to destinations not yet explored by humans, including an asteroid and NASA's Journey to Mars. It will have emergency abort capability, sustain the crew during space travel and provide safe re-entry from deep space return velocities. Orion is scheduled to launch on NASA's Space Launch System in late 2018.

220402-N-UP745-2059 East Mediterranean Sea (April 2, 2022) An MH-60R Sea Hawk attached to the Vipers” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 48 launches off the flight deck of Arleigh-Burke class guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham (DDG 109), April 2, 2022. Jason Dunham is a part of the Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations in support of U.S., allied and partner interest in Europe and Africa.

060406-N-4772B-038. Country: East China Sea

of 3