ARABIAN GULF (Sept. 3, 2020) An explosive ordnance disposal technician, assigned to Commander, Task Force (CTF) 56, is hoisted from a Mark VI patrol boat into an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, attached to Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 26, during hoist training operations in the Arabian Gulf. CTF 56 and HSC-26 are deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations and conduct mine warfare operations in support of naval operations to ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean Sea and Pacific Ocean through the western Indian Ocean and three strategic chokepoints to the free flow of global commerce. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dawson Roth)