190308-N-XK398-1023 PHILIPPINE SEA (March 08, 2019) Sailors aboard the Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Pioneer (MCM 9) lower a mine neutralization vehicle to search and disarm training mines as the ship conducts a mine hunting exercise. Pioneer, part of Mine Countermeasure Squadron 7, is operating in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability with partners and serve as a ready-response platform for contingency operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Joshua Mortensen/Released)