Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: DEFENCE Minister Rajnath Singh and his Moroccan counterpart, Abdellatif Louadi, inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s (TASL) new defence production plant in Barrechid, Morocco, on September 24. Spread over 20,000 square meters, the plant holds significant significance in India-Morocco strategic relations.
It is Morocco’s largest defence production plant and the first such plant established by an Indian private company in Africa. The plant will produce the indigenously developed Wheeled Armored Platform (WhAP) 8×8, jointly designed by TASL and India’s Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
The WhAP features a modular design, advanced mobility, scalable ballistic and mine protection, independent suspension, a high-power engine, and options for manned and automated weapon stations. Its various variants include infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers, reconnaissance vehicles, command posts, mortar carriers, and ambulances. Production has already begun, and the first deliveries to the Royal Moroccan Army are expected next month. The plant became operational three months ahead of schedule.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Rajnath Singh said, “India’s goal of selfreliant India is not only to meet domestic needs but also to become a reliable source of high-tech and quality products for the world. This plant reflects our ‘Make in India,’ ‘Make with Friends,’ and ‘Make for the World’ vision.” He explained that approximately one-third of the components will be locally sourced, and local value addition is expected to increase to 50% in the coming years. The plant will create employment opportunities in Morocco and develop a strong ecosystem of engineers, technicians, and suppliers.
The Defence Minister also stressed the geographical importance of Morocco, which is a gateway to Africa and Europe, and called for making it a hub for exports and international cooperation. He said that this plant will strengthen India-Morocco defence cooperation, enhance regional security and inspire young talent from both countries to innovate and collaborate. Senior officials from the Government of Morocco, the Moroccan Royal Armed Forces, the Government of India, the Indian Armed Forces and TASL were present at the inauguration ceremony.
