PHILIPPINE SEA (April 23, 2017) The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) transits the Philippine Sea while conducting a bilateral exercise with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group is operating as part of U.S. 7th Fleet, but remains deployed under the U.S. 3rd Fleet Forward operating concept, which provides additional options to the Pacific Fleet commander and leverages the capabilities of both 3rd and 7th Fleets. U.S. Navy aircraft carrier strike groups have patrolled the Indo-Asia-Pacific regularly and routinely for more than 70 years. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Z.A. Landers/Released)