190305-N-IO414-1044 SOUTH CHINA SEA (March 5, 2019) The Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Chief (MCM 14) transits the South China Sea with the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). Chief, part of Mine Countermeasure Squadron 7, is operating in the Indo-Pacific region 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 Jordan Crouch/Released)