200719-N-UE100-0027 MUTSU BAY (July 19, 2020) Chief Mineman Pua Xiong fires the expendable bathythermograph into the water to read the expected sonar range of the day aboard the mine countermeasures ship USS Pioneer (MCM 9). Pioneer, part of Mine Countermeasures 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 3rd Class Caleb Strong/Released)