190314-N-AD347-1167 PHILIPPINE SEA (March 14, 2019) The Avenger-class mine countermeasures ship USS Pioneer (MCM 9) conducts Mine hunting training out in the Philippine Sea. Patriot, 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 LTJG Alexander Fairbanks/Released)