New Delhi. India’s Wheeled Armored Platform (WHAP) armored vehicles have officially outperformed China’s Type-08 armored vehicle in testing. India’s wheeled armored platform armored vehicles are manufactured by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). The announcement came amid difficult trials conducted by the Moroccan military. The demonstration marked an unprecedented partnership between India and Morocco, marking a watershed moment for Indian defense exports. According to media reports, TASL had signed a contract with the Moroccan National Defense Administration. Making it one of India’s largest global defense deals. Under this three-year agreement, Tata Advanced Systems Morocco (TASM) in Casablanca will produce 100 WHAPs annually. Due to which there will be a substantial increase in local employment with 90 direct and 250 indirect jobs. For Morocco, this cooperation marks a strategic shift. The country is trying to reduce dependence on major arms suppliers like America. And its defense budget, projected at $12.2 billion for 2024, focuses on building a more self-reliant defense infrastructure. Morocco has also approved two dedicated areas for military production. Which shows strong commitment to strengthen its domestic defense sector. Meanwhile, India’s role in African defense is increasing.
This contract is an important milestone
This production initiative also aims to increase the indigenous content in Morocco’s WHAP to 50 percent. Which demonstrates Morocco’s commitment to growing its own defense industry. Sukaran Singh, CEO of TASL, said, “This contract is an important milestone for us, as we continue to expand into global markets. Designed to deal with rugged terrain and equipped with amphibious and anti-mine capabilities, the WHAP is a highly versatile vehicle. On which the Indian Army already relies for various missions.