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Photos

Snapshots of what’s happening in the Defense Department.

A sailor raises their fist while standing on a ship at sea as a black Japanese aircraft floats in the background.

Balikatan Beacon

Navy Lt. Kenroy Maldonado signals the stern gate operator of the USS Ashland during a casualty evacuation exercise with a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force US-2 aircraft as part of Balikatan in the South China Sea, April 27, 2026. The exercise represents the strength of the U.S.-Philippine alliance, improves the capability of the combined force and demonstrates the commitment to regional peace and prosperity.

Photo Gallery