WhAP 8×8: Vehicles To Be Rolled Out From Tata’s Manufacturing Plant, Largest Defence Factory In Morocco

Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has inaugurated a cutting-edge defence manufacturing plant in Berrechid, located in Morocco’s Casablanca region. The facility will produce the Wheeled Armoured Platform 8×8 (WhAP 8×8), a next-generation combat vehicle jointly developed with India’s DRDO.

The plant is the first overseas defence manufacturing facility established by a private Indian company, underscoring India’s growing role as a global defence exporter. Notably, the recently inaugurated Tata manufacturing plant is the defence factory in the Kingdom of Morocco.

Inaugurated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Morocco’s Minister Delegate for National Defence Abdeltif Loudyi, alongside senior officials from both nations, the facility marks a milestone in India–Morocco defence industrial cooperation, underscoring New Delhi’s push for global defence partnerships.

How large is the Tata facility and what will it make?

Spread over 20,000 square metres, the site is now the largest defence manufacturing plant in Morocco. Under its contract with the Moroccan government, TASL will deliver the WhAP 8×8, with the first batch scheduled for delivery next month. The plant became operational three months ahead of schedule, and production is already underway.

Beyond vehicle production, the plant has generated direct and indirect jobs, strengthened local supply chains, built technical expertise, and established in-country product support. Moroccan industry partners will supply critical subsystems and technologies, deepening industrial collaboration.

TASL CEO & MD Sukaran Singh stated that the project marks a strategic step in offering “designed-in-India” defence technology systems abroad, with Morocco becoming a gateway for exports to other African nations.

Who will be first recipients of WhAP 8×8 vehicles?

The Royal Moroccan Army will be the first to receive the new vehicles. Over time, the facility is expected to expand production for export to friendly African nations, strengthening India’s footprint in the continent’s defence market.

What is the wheeled armoured platform (WhAP 8×8)?

The WhAP 8×8 is a modern, modular armoured combat vehicle co-developed by DRDO and TASL to deliver high mobility, survivability, and mission flexibility. Key Features of WhAP 8×8 include the following –

• High-power engine with independent suspension and central tyre inflation system for rough terrain

• Survivable monocoque hull offering scalable ballistic and mine protection

• Configurable with remote or manned weapon stations, anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) systems, and amphibious capability

What roles can the WhAP 8×8 fulfil?

The platform’s modular design allows it to be adapted for multiple missions, including Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), Reconnaissance Vehicle, Command Post, Mortar Carrier, and Battlefield Ambulance. Its versatility makes the WhAP 8×8 a force multiplier for modern armies, capable of adapting to diverse combat scenarios.