A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer assigned to the 9th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, deployed from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, prepares to take off from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, to fly a bilateral mission with two Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-15’s over the East China Sea, July 6, 2017. Bilateral training fosters increased interoperability between Japan and U.S. aircraft. Participating in bilateral training enables the operational units to improve their combined capabilities and tactical skills, while also building bilateral confidence and strong working relationships. (U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Richard P. Ebensberger)