190313-N-XK398-1092 PHILIPPINE SEA (March 13, 2019) Sailors lower a mine neutralization vehicle (NMV) onto the deck of the Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Pioneer (MCM 9) as the ship completes mine hunting exercises. 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)