Casablanca, Morocco / Mumbai: Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has officially inaugurated its first overseas defence manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Casablanca region, Morocco, marking a historic milestone for the private Indian defence sector.
The plant, dedicated to producing the Wheeled Armoured Platform 8×8 (WhAP 8×8), was inaugurated by Rajnath Singh, India’s Defence Minister, and Abdeltif Loudyi, Minister Delegate for National Defence, Morocco, alongside senior dignitaries from both countries.
Spanning 20,000 sqm, the Berrechid facility is Morocco’s largest defence production unit and represents a strategic collaboration between India and Morocco.
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Tata Advanced Systems: WhAP 8×8 Manufacturing Under Contract with Moroccan Government
Tata Advanced Systems will manufacture the WhAP 8×8 under its contract with the Moroccan government, with initial deliveries scheduled next month. Impressively, the facility became operational three months ahead of schedule and has already commenced production.
The facility has created direct and indirect employment opportunities, developed a robust local supplier ecosystem, built critical technology capabilities, and ensured in-country product support.
Dedicated ancillary partners supply key subsystems and components, further strengthening Morocco’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Sukaran Singh, CEO & MD of Tata Advanced Systems, said, “This facility marks our strategic initiative to offer designed-in-India defence technology systems to friendly countries overseas. The inauguration of this factory near Casablanca signifies a new chapter in India–Morocco industrial partnership, and Tata Advanced Systems is proud to contribute to this landmark achievement.”
Initially serving the Royal Moroccan Army, the facility is planned to expand production for exports to friendly nations, particularly in Africa.
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WhAP 8×8 Overview:
The Wheeled Armoured Platform 8×8 (WhAP 8×8), jointly developed by DRDO and Tata, is a state-of-the-art modular armoured platform designed for mobility, protection, and mission adaptability.
It features a high-power engine, independent suspension, central tyre inflation, and a survivable monocoque hull with scalable ballistic and mine protection.
The platform supports various configurations including IFV, APC, reconnaissance, command, mortar carrier, ambulance, remote or manned weapon stations, ATGM capability, and amphibious operations, delivering a versatile solution for diverse combat missions.
