Rajnath Singh opens Tata defence unit, promotes ‘Make with Friends’ initiative
Casablanca
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Morocco’s Defence Minister Abdelatif Loudyi jointly inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s new defence manufacturing facility in Casablanca. The plant, set up to produce the indigenously developed WhAP 8×8 armoured combat vehicle, marks the first Indian defence collaborative manufacturing venture in Morocco, strengthening India-Morocco defence ties. The Ministry of Defence highlighted that the initiative aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat’s MakeInIndia and the “Make with Friends” strategy, contributing to global peace and security.
Singh emphasised that the facility reflects India’s growing capability to meet domestic defence needs while supporting partner nations. Spread over 20,000 square feet, the plant will incorporate advanced mobility, protection, and firepower, developed in collaboration with DRDO. Around one-third of components will be locally sourced in Morocco initially, with plans to increase local value addition to 50 percent in the coming years.
The Defence Minister highlighted that this project goes beyond trade, creating jobs for Moroccan engineers, technicians, and suppliers while boosting the local industrial ecosystem. He described the plant as a bridge between India’s technological base and Morocco’s strategic location connecting Africa, Europe, and the Atlantic. Singh also noted that India-Morocco cooperation has expanded across sectors including renewable energy, IT, fertilisers, and tourism, and this defence partnership further strengthens bilateral ties.
The inauguration took place during Singh’s historic first visit as an Indian Defence Minister to Morocco, where he was warmly welcomed by local officials and the Indian community in Casablanca.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Maroc’s new manufacturing facility in Berrechid, Morocco, calling it a historic step for India’s global defence collaboration. The plant, spread over 20,000 square feet, will produce advanced WhAP 8×8 armoured vehicles in partnership with DRDO, with around one-third of components locally sourced in Morocco. Singh highlighted the initiative as part of India’s “Make in India” and “Make with Friends” vision, strengthening bilateral ties, creating jobs, building local capacity, and promoting innovation while contributing to global peace and security.
