Tata Advanced Systems Limited today unveiled a new, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Casablanca region for the Wheeled Armoured Platform 8×8 (WhAP 8×8). The facility was inaugurated by Shri Rajnath Singh, Honourable Defence Minister of India and Mr Abdeltif Loudyi, Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of the Administration National Defence, Kingdom of Morocco, in the presence of senior government dignitaries from both countries. This milestone marks the first overseas defence manufacturing facility established by a private Indian company, underlining India’s capability to design and deliver advanced combat vehicle platforms in partnership with DRDO.
Spread over 20,000 sqm, it is the Kingdom of Morocco’s largest defence manufacturing facility. Under its contract with the Government of Morocco, Tata Advanced Systems will undertake the production and delivery of the WhAP 8×8, with initial deliveries scheduled to begin next month. The facility became operational three months ahead of schedule, and production has already commenced.
The facility has generated both direct and indirect employment, developed a robust supplier ecosystem, built critical technology capabilities, and established in-country product support. It also supports dedicated ancillary partners supplying essential subsystems and technologies.
Mr. Sukaran Singh, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director, Tata Advanced Systems Limited, said,“As the first overseas manufacturing facility by a private Indian defence OEM, it also marks our strategic initiative to begin offering designed-in-India Defence technology systems to friendly countries overseas. Today’s Defence factory inauguration near Casablanca in Morocco marks a new chapter in the India–Morocco industrial partnership, and Tata Advanced Systems is proud to be part of this milestone.”
The facility will initially cater to the Royal Moroccan Army before expanding to export friendly countries, especially in Africa.
Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP 8×8)
Jointly developed by DRDO and Tata, the WhAP 8×8 is a modern, modular armoured platform designed for mobility, protection and mission adaptability. It features a high-power engine with independent suspension and central tyre inflation for confident off-road performance; a survivable monocoque hull with scalable ballistic and mine protection. With options for remote weapon stations, manned or unmanned, ATGM capability, amphibious operations, and multiple role-based configurations ranging from IFV and APC to reconnaissance, command, mortar carrier and ambulance, the WhAP 8×8 delivers a versatile land-combat platform solution for diverse mission needs.
