In a significant achievement for India’s “Make in India” initiative, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) has inked a major defense manufacturing deal with Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces for the local production of the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP). This partnership marks India’s first overseas defense plant in Casablanca, set to manufacture up to 100 WhAP units annually. The WhAP, an amphibious, multi-role combat vehicle developed with India’s DRDO, is tailored to Morocco’s diverse terrains, from deserts to marshlands.
The contract aligns with Morocco’s ambitions to enhance its defence capabilities and serves as a gateway for TASL into Africa’s broader defence market. Trials of the WhAP in Morocco were pivotal in finalising the agreement, showcasing the vehicle’s versatility, such as its amphibious abilities and robust defence against mine blasts. The WhAP, already used by Indian forces, will be adapted to Morocco’s needs, and further refined in collaboration with DRDO.
Tata’s foray into Morocco comes at a time when African defence procurement is diversifying beyond traditional suppliers like Russia and Europe. India’s strategic defense exports to Africa have been bolstered through various high-level engagements, positioning this project as a significant step forward in strengthening India-Africa defense ties. This initiative also supports local employment, with around 350 jobs expected to be created in Casablanca. Additionally, the facility aims to foster defense-related exports to other African nations, enhancing regional security capabilities.
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This landmark agreement showcases India’s growing defence manufacturing prowess and aligns with its broader goals under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) strategy. Morocco, too, benefits from this collaboration, securing its first large-scale defense manufacturing capability, setting a new precedent in Africa for defense partnerships.