In April 2011 the USS Bataan (LHD-5) with its amphibious ready Group (BATARG) arrived in the Mediterranean Sea three months ahead of schedule. They relieved the USS Kearsage and the 26 MEU (26 Marine Corps Expeditionary Unit) from tasks as part of the continuous presence of the US Navy Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean Sea. The BATARG supported the 22 MEU and its marine medium tilt rotor squadron VMM-263 (reinforced) for the second time with the MV-22B Ospreys. In 2009, the USS Bataan became the first United States Navy ship to host an operational squadron of this type and VMM-263 is the MV-22B Osprey squadron that serves as the Air Combat Element (ACE) of the 22D Marine Expeditionary Unit.

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