190508-N-AD347-1095 SOUTH CHINA SEA, (May 8, 2019) The Avenger-class mine countermeasures ships USS Pioneer (MCM 9) and USS Patriot (MCM 7) underway. Both Pioneer and Patriot, part of Mine Countermeasures Squadron 7, are 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 Lt. j.g. Alexander Fairbanks/Released)