Tata WhAP Armoured Vehicle Undergoing Trials in Morocco

Morocco and India have recently taken a historic step in defence cooperation. Morocco has begun trials and local production of the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8, a modern armoured vehicle developed by Tata Advanced Systems in collaboration with India’s DRDO. This marks the first time an Indian private company has established a defence manufacturing facility abroad, signalling a new era for both Indian exports and Moroccan defence industry.

What is WhAP 8×8?

The WhAP 8×8 is a modular, multi-role armoured vehicle designed for modern battlefield needs. Built with adaptability in mind, it can be configured as an Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), Reconnaissance Vehicle, Command Post, Mortar Carrier, or even an Armoured Ambulance.

The vehicle features an 8×8 wheeled drive system, giving it excellent mobility across rough terrains. Select variants also retain amphibious capability, allowing it to cross rivers and water obstacles. Its armour is modular and scalable, ensuring protection against both ballistic threats and landmine explosions.

The Deal Between India and Morocco

• Morocco has placed an order for 150 WhAP 8×8 vehicles, which will be delivered over the next three years.

• A brand-new facility covering 20,000 square metres has been established in Berrechid, near Casablanca. This is Tata’s first overseas defence manufacturing unit, built ahead of schedule and already operational.

• Production will begin with about 35% local Moroccan content, gradually increasing to 50%.

• The facility is not just for Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces but also aimed at becoming an export hub for Africa, positioning Morocco as a rising player in regional defence manufacturing.

Specifications and Features

• Weight: Ranges between 20 and 27 tonnes, depending on the variant. Lighter versions maintain amphibious capability.

• Mobility: Equipped with a high-power engine, automatic transmission, independent suspension, and a central tyre inflation system. These features ensure performance in desert and rugged terrain.

• Protection: A survivable monocoque hull combined with modular armour that can be upgraded over time. Designed to withstand both small arms fire and mine blasts.

• Armament: Standard configuration includes a 30 mm autocannon and a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun, but Morocco may also integrate advanced turrets, remote weapon stations, and possibly anti-tank guided missiles.

• Variants: IFV, APC, command post, ambulance, reconnaissance vehicle, and mortar carrier, with the flexibility to support specialised missions like CBRN reconnaissance.

Trials and Performance

The WhAP 8×8 has been undergoing extensive field trials in Morocco. These trials are assessing its desert mobility, firing accuracy, survivability, and endurance under local conditions. Reports suggest that it has performed better than some rival armoured vehicles, with strong results in terms of engine power, suspension, and adaptability.

Strategic Significance

For India, this deal is a major achievement under the “Make in India, Make for the World” initiative, demonstrating that Indian defence products are now competitive on the international stage. It highlights India’s growing ability not just to export hardware but to set up complete production ecosystems abroad.

For Morocco, the benefits are equally important. By establishing local production, the country reduces reliance on foreign suppliers, builds technical expertise, creates jobs, and positions itself as a regional defence hub for Africa.

Economically, the project supports Morocco’s push to strengthen its industrial base while also attracting future opportunities in defence exports.

The WhAP 8×8 programme in Morocco is more than just a defence contract—it is a partnership that strengthens both nations strategically and industrially. With trials already underway and the first deliveries expected soon, Morocco is on the path to fielding one of the most versatile wheeled armoured vehicles in the world. India, meanwhile, cements its status as a credible global defence exporter with ambitions far beyond its borders.