Search and rescue operations are continuing along Morocco’s southern Atlantic coast after two US soldiers went missing over the weekend in an incident unrelated to the ongoing African Lion 2026 exercises.
According to US defense officials cited by CBS News, the two soldiers disappeared near the Cap Draa training area during an off-duty outing. The incident occurred while members of their unit were observing the sunset along the coastline.
Initial reports indicate that one soldier lost his balance and fell into the ocean. Fellow troops attempted an immediate rescue by forming a human chain using belts, but strong waves prevented them from reaching him.
A second soldier then jumped into the water in an effort to save his colleague, who is believed to have had limited swimming ability, but was also overwhelmed by powerful surf, further complicating the situation.
A third soldier reportedly entered the water as well but was unable to rescue the two missing troops. He managed to return safely to shore as the rest of the unit began coordinating with rescue teams.
Moroccan-led search efforts have been underway for three days, involving air, sea, and ground units. Helicopters, drones, divers, and rescue vessels have been deployed to scan a wide stretch of coastline in hopes of locating the missing soldiers.
The incident took place on the sidelines of African Lion 2026, the largest annual joint military exercise on the continent, organized by the US Africa Command (AFRICOM). The drills bring together thousands of troops from the United States, African partner nations, and NATO allies to enhance operational readiness across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains.
This year’s edition involves more than 7,000 personnel from over 30 countries, with multiple training sites across Morocco, including areas near the Atlantic coast.
