ATLANTIC OCEAN (Feb. 19, 2021) The Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Vella Gulf (CG 72), comes alongside the fast combat support ship USNS Arctic (T-AOE 8) for a replenishment-at-sea, Feb. 19, 2021. Vella Gulf is operating in the Atlantic Ocean in support of naval operations to maintain maritime stability and security in order to ensure access, deter aggression and defend U.S., allied and partner interests. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Dean M. Cates)