This photo provided by the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force shows a mine-sweeping drill conducted in 2017 by the United States and Japan

YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan — India is practising mine-countermeasure techniques with the United States and Japan off Aomori prefecture.

The annual 2JA mine-countermeasure exercise — which kicked off Wednesday and is expected to run through July 30 — traditionally involves only the U.S. Navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force. But this year, the Indian Navy sent four explosive ordnance disposal divers to participate with 20 others sent by the U.S. and Japan, according to the JMSDF.

Participants are using sonar equipment to detect mines hidden in the water, a Navy statement said. Those assigned to explosive ordnance disposal units will practice diving operations.

The exercise will end with a drill between the U.S. and Japan during which the countries will “coordinate and communicate to ensure a safe route through simulated mines,” the statement said.

Rear Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, said the exercise helps the forces keep oceans free and safe.

“The mine countermeasure mission is hugely important to both military and civilian shipping from all nations in the Indo-Pacific region and keeping waterways clear of mine threats is fundamental to national security and the free flow of trade,” he said in the statement.

Capt. Yasuhiro Kawakami, commander of Japan’s mine warfare force, said he was “happy” that India has joined this year’s efforts.

“I believe that the Japan-U.S.-India collaboration in the minesweeping and diving exercise is important to bring regional safety and peace,” he said.

The U.S. sent the crew of the USS Chief; Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 5; Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 1; and staff from Mine Countermeasures Squadron 7 to participate.

Japan sent its mine warfare force; Commander, Mine Division 2; minesweeper tender JS Uraga; mine-sweep ocean ships JS Awaji and JS Hirado; 15 mine-sweep coastal ships; Helicopter Mine Warfare Squadron 111; four P-3C patrol aircraft; and a P-1 patrol aircraft.