Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL) is preparing to establish its first significant defence manufacturing facility outside of India, according to a report from The Economic Times. Located in Casablanca, Morocco, this plant will initially focus on the production of Wheeled Armoured Platforms (WhAP) for the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces, with plans to cater to the wider African market in the future.
The WhAP is an amphibious infantry combat vehicle capable of operating in diverse terrains and has been deployed in limited quantities by the Indian Army, including at the border with Ladakh. The new facility is expected to produce around 100 combat vehicles annually and is projected to be operational within a year, with the first units anticipated to be ready within 18 months, as stated in the report.
Sukaran Singh, CEO and Managing Director of TASL, highlighted the strategic significance of this project, explaining, “This not only allows TASL to help kickstart Morocco’s defence ecosystem but also serves as a gateway for TASL into the broader African market for specific defence systems.” He also expressed appreciation for the support from the Moroccan government regarding this landmark production and supply agreement.
The WhAP was developed in partnership with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and has undergone rigorous testing in various desert conditions in Africa before being chosen by Morocco. Although the exact contract value remains undisclosed, this initiative marks the first major greenfield defence plant established by an Indian company outside of India.
This development represents a significant step in India’s defence export strategy, as it expands into a rapidly growing African market. The new facility is expected to generate approximately 350 jobs and will involve considerable work in India as well.
Furthermore, it underscores Tata’s entry into the competitive African defence sector, which has historically been dominated by Russian and European manufacturers but is now attracting increased attention from Indian firms. India has been actively encouraging its defence exports to Africa through various government initiatives, including bilateral visits and presentations aimed at strengthening partnerships in the region.
