On 30 January 2012, "Wasp" set sail for Operation Bold Alligator, the largest amphibious exercise conducted by U.S. forces in the last decade. The exercise took place from 30 January to 12 February, both afloat and ashore in and around Virginia and North Carolina. In May 2012, "Wasp" participated in New York's Fleet Week, docking at Pier 92 on the Hudson River and offering tours of the ship to the general public. In July 2012, "Wasp" visited Boston for Fleet Week 2012 and Fourth of July festivities. On 30 October 2012, "Wasp" was sent towards the Hurricane Sandy impact area in case the USN was needed to support the disaster relief efforts. In June 2016, "Wasp" deployed for a six-month tour to the Middle East In October 2016, the US Navy announced that "Wasp" will deploy to Sasebo, Japan in late 2017, replacing her sister ship , which will be moved to San Diego, California. On 1 August 2016, Marine AV-8B Harriers from "Wasp" began strikes against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant in Libya as part of manned and unmanned airstrikes on targets near Sirte, launching at least five times within two days.