US Soldiers Go Missing During African Lion Exercises
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) and the Moroccan Armed Forces have confirmed the disappearance of two American soldiers during the ongoing "African Lion" military exercises. This incident occurred on Saturday night, with initial reports indicating that the soldiers went missing near a rocky coastal cliff in the "Cap Draa" area, located close to the southern Moroccan city of Tan-Tan. There are concerns that they may have drowned in the Atlantic Ocean, as strong currents could have swept them away while they attempted to swim at the mouth of the Draa River. In response to this alarming situation, joint forces have initiated a comprehensive multinational search and rescue operation.
Following the report of the incident around 9:00 p.m. on May 2, Moroccan and American forces began coordinated search operations utilizing land, air, and sea resources. The Moroccan military deployed reconnaissance aircraft, including Beechcraft King Air 350ER, along with SA-330 Puma and AS-332 Super Puma helicopters, as well as a CH-47 Chinook heavy transport helicopter. Additionally, unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) from both countries were utilized to enhance the search in this rugged geographic area, while units from the Royal Navy, including a frigate and specialized diving teams, were tasked with combing the territorial waters and adjacent coastline.
Ongoing Efforts and Future Developments
On land, units from the Royal Armed Forces and the United States Army expanded the search radius around the training area as part of an integrated effort aimed at determining the fate of the two missing personnel. In their statement, AFRICOM confirmed that investigations are underway to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident, emphasizing the highest priority on search operations and providing support to the families of the soldiers. Meanwhile, sources from the Moroccan military have indicated that additional information will be gradually released as the situation on the ground evolves.
This incident coincides with the annual "African Lion 2026" exercise, which commenced on April 27 and is set to continue until May 8. This exercise, which first took place in 2007, is regarded as the largest of its kind on the African continent and is organized by the United States Africa Command in coordination with the Kingdom of Morocco. Over 5,000 military personnel from 41 countries are participating in the current edition, aimed at enhancing on-ground operational coordination among U.S. forces, NATO allies, and partner African nations. (Alex Ribeiro)
As reported by defensa.com.
