GULF OF OMAN (Nov. 3, 2023) Five U.S. Coast Guard Sentinel-class fast-response cutters and two Avenger-class mine countermeasures (MCM) ships sail together in the Gulf of Oman, Nov. 3. The cutters are assigned to Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA), the Coast Guard's largest unit outside of the U.S. The MCMs are assigned to Task Force 52, responsible for U.S. 5th Fleet's mine countermeasures mission. These units enhance maritime security and deter malign activity in this vital region and through strategic chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz. (U.S. Navy courtesy photo)