Context:
Defence Minister of India and Moroccan counterpart Abdelatif Loudyi jointly inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s (TASL) first overseas defence manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Morocco.
About Defence Manufacturing Facility
- Facility size: 20,000 square meters
- Product: Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8
- Jointly developed by TASL and India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- Modular combat platform with multiple configurations: infantry fighting vehicle, armoured personnel carrier, reconnaissance, command post, mortar carrier, ambulance.
- Equipped with options like remote weapon stations and anti-tank guided missile systems.
- This facility not only marks India’s first defence manufacturing plant abroad, but also becomes the largest such facility in Morocco, symbolizing the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries.
- Under the terms of an agreement, TASL will supply these advanced armoured vehicles to the Royal Moroccan Army, with initial deliveries scheduled to begin next month.
Overall Impact
- Marks a new chapter in India-Morocco defence ties.
- Boosts local manufacturing capabilities and regional prosperity.
- Enhances technological collaboration and innovation between the two nations.
Strategic Importance and Vision
- Facility symbolizes India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision:
- Moving from self-reliance to “Make with Friends” and “Make for the World”
- Employment impact:
- Generates defence-related jobs in Morocco
- Local sourcing planned to start at 33%, rising to 50% over time
- Morocco’s strategic location:
- Gateway to Africa and Europe
- Key export hub for defence products