Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces and Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) have signed a defense deal to produce the TASL Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8 armored vehicle in Casablanca. This marks the first large defense manufacturing plant in Morocco and Tata’s first overseas venture. The partnership will not only serve Morocco’s defense needs but also act as a hub for exports across Africa, enhancing Morocco’s industrial self-reliance.

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The Kingdom of Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces and Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) have formed a strategic alliance to produce the TASL Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8 armoured vehicle in Casablanca. This collaboration is a significant milestone for the defense industries of both nations. It represents Morocco’s first large-scale defense manufacturing plant and the first overseas venture for an Indian defense Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

The WhAP 8×8 is designed to operate across various terrains. As previously reported, the Indian army has deployed these vehicles in limited numbers on the Ladakh border. TASL developed the 8×8 platform with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Tata Motors, and it will now be assembled in Morocco. According to the agreement, final assembly will occur at a 20,000-square-meter facility in Casablanca, which will also serve as an export hub for African nations.

TASL’s CEO, Sukaran Singh, highlighted the importance of this contract, saying, “This contract is of significant size and of strategic importance for us.” The collaboration is expected to deepen defense ties between Morocco and India and enable TASL to expand into the African market.

Morocco’s Defence Minister Abdeltif Loudyi noted that the partnership would boost Morocco’s industrial self-reliance. The plant, expected to be operational in 12 months, will adhere to international standards, driving employment, skill development, and local value addition.