ARABIAN GULF (Oct. 20, 2017) An EA-18G Growler attached to the "Gray Wolves" of the Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 142 launches from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68). Nimitz is deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. While in the region, the ship and strike group are conducting maritime security operations to reassure allies and partners, preserve freedom of navigation, and maintain the free flow of commerce. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elesia K. Patten)