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The Multipurpose Amphibious Assault Ship USS Bataan (LHD-5) In Med Sea

In July 2011, the USS Bataan (LHD-5), a Wasp-class multipurpose amphibious assault ship of the U.S. Navy, operates in the Mediterranean Sea during the operational deployment of the Bataan Amphibious Ready Group under U.S. 6th Fleet. It embarks with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit, providing amphibious power projection, command and control, and support to maritime security operations, non-combatant evacuation operations, and regional crisis response, including the initial phases of operations related to the Libyan crisis. The naval task group consists of USS Bataan, USS Mesa Verde (LPD-19), and USS Whidbey Island (LSD-41), and is augmented by elements of Amphibious Squadron 6, Naval Beach Group, Fleet Surgical Team 8, and Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 28. The Aviation Combat Element of the 22nd MEU, centered on Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron VMM-263, operates MV-22B Osprey, CH-53E Super Stallion, AV-8B Harrier II, AH-1W Super Cobra, and UH-1N Huey aircraft to provide assault support, logistical lift, close air support, armed escort, and command and control in support of the Marine Air-Ground Task Force ashore. (Photo by Francesco Militello Mirto/NurPhoto)

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