Ongoing Search Efforts for American Soldiers in Morocco
As the search for two missing American soldiers continues into its sixth day, joint operations involving the Moroccan and American military have expanded significantly. The two soldiers were reported missing during the African Lion military exercises, which are being held in Morocco. According to the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), the soldiers disappeared around 8:00 PM local time on Saturday near a cliff at Ras Drâa in the Tan-Tan region.
A Pentagon official shared with Anadolu Agency that the search operations have thus far covered an area exceeding 8,000 square kilometers of both sea and coastal regions, with efforts still broadening. More than 600 personnel from the United States, Morocco, and several other countries are actively participating in the search. An American P-8 aircraft has notably enhanced maritime search capabilities, while Moroccan cave divers are engaged in the operations alongside underwater vehicles that are conducting sonar scans along the coast.
The African Lion exercise, which commenced on April 27, 2026, involves 41 countries and is set to conclude on May 8. The exercises are among the largest military drills in Africa, held annually in collaboration between Morocco and the United States, and often include European and African nations. This year marks the 22nd iteration of the exercise, which first began in 2007.
Various aerial and naval assets are being utilized in the search, including Moroccan SA-330 Puma and AS332 Super Puma helicopters, along with an American CH-47 Chinook helicopter. Additionally, both Moroccan and American drone systems are deployed, alongside a U.S. logistical support ship and a frigate of the Royal Moroccan Navy. The multinational nature of the search reflects the collaborative effort and commitment of allied nations to ensure the safe return of the missing soldiers.
As reported by aa.com.tr.
