Morocco – In a landmark move for India's defence industry, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL), a Tata Group company, is set to establish India's first overseas defence manufacturing plant in Casablanca, Morocco. This significant development marks a major step in India's push to become a global defence exporter and strengthens its strategic ties with Africa.
The state-of-the-art facility will primarily produce the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP), an 8x8 amphibious infantry combat vehicle developed jointly by TASL and DRDO. With an annual production capacity of 100 WhAP units, the plant is expected to be operational within a year, with the first vehicles rolling out in 18 months.
This contract represents a significant win for TASL, providing a strategic entry point into the growing African defence market. Sukaran Singh, CEO and Managing Director of TASL, highlighted the importance of this venture, stating, "This not only enables TASL to help initiate Morocco's defence ecosystem but also acts as a launch point for TASL into the rest of Africa for select defence systems."
The WhAP has already been deployed with the Indian Army in Ladakh and has undergone extensive trials in African deserts before being selected by the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces. This indigenously designed platform is capable of operating in diverse terrains, from deserts and mountains to marshy lands.
The Casablanca plant is not only a first for India but also for Morocco. It will be the first facility in the country capable of manufacturing a complete major defence platform. The project is expected to generate employment for around 350 people and contribute significantly to both the Moroccan and Indian economies. A major portion of the manufacturing process will also be carried out in India.
This initiative aligns with India's broader strategy to expand its defence footprint in Africa, a market traditionally dominated by Russian and European suppliers, with China emerging as a major player in recent years. India has been actively promoting defen e cooperation with African nations through bilateral visits and government initiatives.
