In a significant step forward in defense collaboration between India and Morocco, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has successfully delivered the first batch of WhAP 8×8 wheeled armoured vehicles to the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) of Morocco. This delivery marks a crucial milestone in enhancing bilateral defense ties and showcases the capabilities of local manufacturing in the region.
The WhAP vehicles are being produced at TASL’s newly established facility in Berrechid, Morocco, designated to fulfill all units ordered by the Moroccan Army. In a recent post on X, TASL referred to the handover as a “proud milestone,” emphasizing the platform’s proven performance and the swift industrial ramp-up of the Berrechid plant, which is tailored to meet the specific operational needs of the FAR.
The WhAP (Wheeled Armoured Platform) program is the result of a collaborative effort between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Tata Advanced Systems. The inauguration of the Berrechid manufacturing facility took place in September 2025, featuring attendance from notable figures such as Rajnath Singh, India’s Defence Minister, and Abdelatif Loudyi, Morocco’s Minister Delegate for National Defence Administration. This facility spans nearly 20,000 square meters and became operational several months earlier than planned, marking a historical moment as the first industrial presence of a private Indian defense company in Africa.
Currently, around one-third of the components for the WhAP vehicles are assembled locally, with intentions to progressively enhance local value addition. The WhAP 8×8 is designed as a modular combat vehicle, featuring a monocoque hull, scalable ballistic and mine protection, independent suspension, and a centralized tire pressure control system. This versatile platform can accommodate a variety of mission roles, including troop transport, command and control, medical evacuation, and as a mortar carrier, with options for equipping remote weapon stations and anti-tank guided missiles.
This delivery not only highlights India’s expanding defense export capabilities but also reinforces the notion of South–South defense cooperation. Furthermore, it positions Tata Advanced Systems as a rising global player in the domain of next-generation armoured vehicle manufacturing.
