India inaugurates armoured vehicle factory in Morocco
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The factory in Morocco is set to produce WhAP 8x8 combat vehicles for the Moroccan army and export markets, boosting defense cooperation.
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Made in India Infantry Combat vehicles inducted into the Indian Army in Leh are shown on June 24, 2022 (Social media)
A new factory producing Indian infantry combat vehicles was inaugurated in Morocco on Tuesday, highlighting India’s growing global defense footprint.
The TATA Advanced Systems Maroc plant, located in Berrechid’s industrial zone, will manufacture WhAP 8x8 (Wheeled Armoured Platform) vehicles for Morocco’s army, as well as for export markets, Morocco’s official MAP news agency reported.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and followed an investment agreement signed between New Delhi and Rabat in September 2024.
"This facility demonstrates that Indian industries are not only capable of meeting domestic needs but are also prepared to enhance the defense capabilities of friendly nations through partnership," Singh said.
Production capacity, job creation
The plant is expected to produce up to 100 vehicles annually, with first deliveries projected in about 18 months, according to Moroccan media. It is forecast to generate around 90 direct jobs and 250 indirect jobs, with production capacity expected to expand over time.
The WhAP, unveiled in India in 2023, is an all-terrain combat vehicle that marks India’s ambition to emerge as a leading arms exporter.
Morocco’s defense industry push
For Morocco, the project is part of a wider effort to strengthen its domestic defense sector, focusing on arms production, ammunition, drones, and aircraft maintenance.
Earlier this year, Turkish defense firm Baykar announced plans to open a Moroccan subsidiary for drone and military technology development.
The India-Morocco initiative underscores the increasing role of international partnerships in shaping Morocco’s defense modernization strategy.
