Search Intensifies for Missing U.S. Service Members in Morocco's African Lion 2026

Two U.S. service members went missing near the Cap Draa Training Area in Morocco during African Lion 2026 exercises. U.S. Africa Command has initiated extensive search operations with Moroccan and partner forces. The situation is under investigation and remains unresolved.

Two U.S. service members, participating in the joint exercise known as African Lion 2026, are reported missing near the Cap Draa Training Area close to Tan Tan in Morocco, according to U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) on Sunday.

Joint search and rescue operations, involving ground, air, and maritime resources, have been initiated by U.S., Moroccan, and partner forces to locate the missing personnel. AFRICOM is leading the efforts.

The incident, which underscores the unpredictability of military exercises, remains under active investigation. African Lion is the largest annual joint exercise conducted by U.S. Africa Command, designed to enhance interoperability among U.S. forces, NATO allies, and African partner nations.