EAST CHINA SEA (Dec. 7, 2010) A Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force SH-60K Sea Hawk helicopter lands aboard the forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) as part exercise Keen Sword. The joint bilateral exercise is designed to strengthen Japan and U.S. military operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Adam M. Bennett/Released)