American troops battled to recover a sunken M88 Hercules with four soldiers onboard in Lithuania.

Authorities reported that the armoured vehicle and its crew had been missing since early Tuesday morning, March 25, when they were conducting a maintenance training mission in Pabrade.

The four soldiers were part of the 1st Armored Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, based at Fort Stewart, Georgia.

Footage shows Lithuanian and US soldiers, volunteer rescuers, and heavy equipment working at the site.

The nearly 70-tonne M88 Hercules was discovered on Wednesday, submerged in 15ft (4.5m) of water.

On Monday, three bodies were found inside the vehicle. Authorities confirmed that their identities were being withheld pending family notifications.

Major General Christopher Norrie, 3rd Infantry Division commander, said: 'We stand in grief with the families and loved ones of these extraordinary 'Dogface Soldiers' during this unimaginable time.

'But the search isn't finished until everyone is home. Words cannot express our gratitude to those still working around the clock during these extensive search and recovery efforts and your unwavering commitment not to rest until all are found.'

The operation also involved helicopters, drones, fixed-wing aircraft, search and rescue personnel, and excavators.