Last week, Tata Advanced Systems Ltd. (TASL) signed a landmark contract to manufacture Wheeled Armoured Platforms (WhAP) in Morocco, establishing India’s first overseas defense manufacturing plant in Casablanca. This facility will produce WhAP vehicles for the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces and aims to serve the broader African defense market, marking Tata’s significant entry into the growing African defense sector.
The TASL plant will initially produce armored vehicles for Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces, with plans to expand production to cater to the wider African region in the future. This project marks the largest acquisition of Indian-made armored vehicles, with a focus on WhAP production for both domestic and international markets.
The WhAP, an amphibious infantry combat vehicle designed for various terrains, will be the centerpiece of the factory. Once operational, the facility is expected to produce 100 combat vehicles annually. TASL plans to have the plant fully operational within a year, initially focusing on meeting Morocco’s defense needs.
TASL’s CEO and Managing Director, Sukaran Singh, highlighted the importance of the collaboration between TASL, DRDO, and Tata Motors. The contract will deliver WhAP vehicles to the Moroccan forces over a three-year period, representing the largest deal for Indian-made armored vehicles globally. Indian paramilitary forces have also placed orders for the WhAP, further underscoring its growing demand.
WhAP vehicles have undergone successful trials in Morocco over recent months, demonstrating their effectiveness in local operational environments. TASL will collaborate closely with DRDO during the manufacturing and supply phases to implement any necessary upgrades.
Indigenously designed, the WhAP is an amphibious wheeled combat vehicle engineered to meet global standards. It features modularity, scalability, and adaptability for various military roles. The vehicle is designed to traverse difficult terrains, such as muddy or slushy conditions, and withstand mine blasts. Several variants of the WhAP exist, including the Infantry Protected Mobility Vehicle (IPMV) and a paramilitary version.
This project underscores TASL’s commitment to advancing India’s defense manufacturing capabilities and forging strong international partnerships. With its advanced features and proven performance, the WhAP is set to become a crucial asset for the Moroccan Armed Forces, solidifying India’s role in global defense manufacturing.
