Post by : Shakul

Morocco and United States military forces are continuing a large-scale search operation for two missing American soldiers who disappeared during joint military exercises near Morocco’s Atlantic coast. More than 600 military personnel from several countries are involved in the operation as rescue teams search coastal waters, underwater caves and rocky shorelines near the city of Tan-Tan in southwestern Morocco.

According to military officials, the two US Army soldiers went missing near the Cap Draa training area during the multinational African Lion 2026 military exercise. Authorities believe the soldiers may have gone on a recreational hike before possibly falling into the Atlantic Ocean under difficult coastal conditions.

The search operation has now entered its fifth day, with military teams covering more than 45 square kilometers of ocean and coastline. Officials stated that the missing soldiers and the safety of military personnel remain the top priority as rescue teams continue efforts around the clock.

The African Lion exercise is one of the largest military drills conducted in Africa and is led by the United States in partnership with African and international allies. The 2026 edition involves more than 7,000 personnel from over 30 countries and is being held across Morocco, Tunisia, Ghana and Senegal.

The Moroccan Navy released visuals showing military divers inspecting caves and underwater areas while helicopters and surveillance aircraft scanned the coastline and ocean surface. Search teams, including canine units and emergency personnel, were also seen combing through rocky beaches and remote coastal terrain.

Several military vessels have been redirected from the exercise to support the search mission. These include a Moroccan multi-mission frigate and a French support vessel. American military logistics ships are also assisting in coordinating rescue and surveillance operations in the region.

Air support has played a major role in the ongoing mission. Aircraft involved in the search include American UC-35 Citation jets, US Army C-12 Huron surveillance planes and Moroccan Puma and Super Puma helicopters. Authorities also confirmed that unmanned aerial systems and drone technology are being used to improve monitoring of difficult search areas.

Military officials have not yet released the identities of the missing soldiers. However, both Moroccan and American authorities said close communication is being maintained with the soldiers’ families while rescue teams continue intensive operations under challenging conditions along the Atlantic coastline.

The incident has drawn international attention as African Lion 2026 approaches its conclusion later this week. Analysts say the operation highlights the strong military cooperation between Morocco, the United States and allied countries, particularly in large multinational exercises and emergency response coordination.

#Asia News #Defense #Military