Vietnam: Two US service members went missing near the Cap Draa Training Area close to the city of Tan Tan in Morocco while participating in the African Lion 2026 exercise, the US Africa Command said Sunday.

According to Anadolu Agency, the US, Moroccan, and other multinational forces have launched coordinated search and rescue operations involving ground, air, and maritime assets. The command stated that the incident remains under investigation and the search is ongoing. It was reported by CBS News that the soldiers went missing in an accident unrelated to the exercise.

African Lion 2026 is one of the largest military exercises in Africa, running from April 13 to May 8. It involves forces from more than 30 countries under the leadership of the US and Morocco, with Tunisia, Ghana, and Senegal hosting parts of the drills. The exercise integrates artificial intelligence and future warfare technologies, aiming to enhance operational readiness and counterterrorism capabilities, as well as address cross-border threats.