181106-N-AD347-1012 SEA OF JAPAN (Nov. 6, 2018) The Avenger-class mine countermeasures ships USS Pioneer (MCM 9), left, and USS Patriot (MCM 7) conduct a parts transfer while underway in the Sea of Japan. Pioneer and Patriot are assigned to Commander, Mine Countermeasures Squadron 7 and are conducting operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Ensign Alexander Fairbanks/Released)