India’s Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP), produced by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), has officially outclassed China’s Type-08 armoured vehicle in a series of demanding trials conducted by the Moroccan Army.

This performance led to a groundbreaking partnership between India and Morocco, marking a pivotal moment for Indian defence exports.

Financial Express Online in September has reported that TASL inked a contract with Morocco’s National Defence Administration, making it one of India’s largest global defence deals. Under this three-year agreement, Tata Advanced Systems Maroc (TASM) in Casablanca will produce up to 100 WhAPs annually, creating a substantial boost in local employment with 90 direct and 250 indirect jobs. This production initiative also sets a goal to raise the indigenous content in Morocco’s WhAPs to 50%, showcasing Morocco’s commitment to enhancing its own defence industry.

Also Read

“This contract marks an important milestone for us as we continue to expand into global markets,” TASL CEO Sukaran Singh remarked. Built to tackle rugged terrain and equipped with amphibious and mine-resistant capabilities, the WhAP is a highly versatile vehicle already trusted by the Indian Army for diverse missions.

For Morocco, this collaboration signifies a strategic shift. The country has been seeking to reduce reliance on major arms suppliers like the US., and its defence budget, projected at $12.2 billion for 2024, reflects a focus on building a more self-sufficient defence infrastructure. Morocco has also approved two dedicated zones for military production, showing strong commitment to fortifying its domestic defence sector.

Meanwhile, India’s role in African defence is growing. Through initiatives such as the India-Africa Defence Dialogue and joint training exercises, India has deepened its ties with African nations. This partnership with Morocco not only strengthens India’s footprint in North Africa but also opens doors for further collaboration, offering new pathways for defence technology exchange across the region.