File:US Navy 050601-N-4309A-091 Beachmaster, Seaman Kai Xiong, assigned to Beach Master Unit Two (BMU-2) signals to a Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) during transport of heavy machinery equipment from Kuwaiti Naval Base.jpg

Beach master, Seaman Kai Xiong, from Beach Master Unit Two (BMU-2) signals to a landing craft air cushion (LCAC) during transport of heavy machinery and equipment from Kuwaiti Naval Base. Landing Craft Air Cushions (LCAC) attached to Assault Craft Unit Four (ACU-4) based in Little Creek, Virginia, are currently deployed in the Northern Arabian Gulf with USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) and USS Ashland (LSD-48) in support of transport operations with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit. USS Ashland (LSD 48) and USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) are currently supporting Maritime Interception Operations (MIO) in the Northern Arabian Gulf. MIO are being conducted within international waters of the U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility. These operations are aimed at interrupting the flow of personnel and material that may support international terrorist organizations within the scope of Maritime Security Operations (MSO). MSO sets the condition for security and stability in the maritime environment. MSO complement the counter-terrorism and security efforts of regional nations. MSO deny international terrorists use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons, or other material.