India’s First Private Defence Manufacturing Plant In Africa Opens In Morocco

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Moroccan counterpart Abdelatif Loudyi on Tuesday (23 September) jointly inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s (TASL) cutting-edge defence manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Morocco marking a significant development for India–Morocco defence cooperation.

Spread across 20,000 square metres, the plant will produce the indigenously developed Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8x8, designed by TASL in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The WhAP is a highly adaptable modular combat vehicle boasting a survivable monocoque hull, scalable ballistic and mine protection, independent suspension, and a high-power engine.

Its versatility allows it to function as an infantry fighting vehicle, armoured personnel carrier, reconnaissance platform, command post, mortar carrier, or even ambulance.

Configurations include both manned and unmanned weapon stations, with options for anti-tank guided missile integration.

Deliveries to the Royal Moroccan Army will begin next month, with the plant commencing operations three months ahead of schedule. It is now the largest defence manufacturing facility in Morocco and notably, the first established by an Indian private company in Africa.

Describing the occasion as “a shining example” of India’s approach to combine self-reliance with international cooperation, Rajnath Singh remarked, “For India, self-reliance does not mean isolation; rather, we aim to develop strategic autonomy under Aatmanirbharta. Along with ‘Make in India,’ we are also pursuing ‘Make with Friends’ and ‘Make for the World’.”

The project is set to create a robust defence ecosystem in Morocco, with one-third of components sourced locally from the outset, rising to 50 per cent over time.

Singh emphasised that Morocco’s strategic location as a gateway to Africa and Europe makes the facility an export hub, enhancing bilateral ties and regional security.

Calling it “the beginning of a new chapter in the long-standing friendship between India and Morocco,” Singh highlighted that the initiative would generate employment, build local capacity, and serve as a model of cooperation for peace and stability.

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