Casablanca [Morocco], September 23 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Morocco’s Defence Minister Abdelatif Loudyi jointly inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s new manufacturing facility in Casablanca.
The Ministry of Defence shared the update on X, stating, “Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh and Morocco’s Defence Minister Mr. Abdelatif Loudyi jointly inaugurated Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s new manufacturing facility in #Casablanca for the production of indigenously developed WhAP 8×8. Marking the first Indian defence collaborative manufacturing venture in Morocco, the initiative ushers in a new chapter in #IndiaMorocco #DefenceCooperation.”
The Ministry further underlined the broader vision behind the initiative. “It embodies the vision of #AtmanirbharBharat – #MakeinIndia and also Make with Friends – contributing to global #peace and #security,” the post read.
Echoing this vision, Singh emphasized the role of partnerships in defence cooperation. “Along with Make in India, we are also working on Make with Friends. Under this initiative, we will collaborate with trusted partners to develop and produce cutting-edge technologies. Ultimately, through ‘Make for the World,’ the benefits of our innovation will be shared globally. The facility being established in Berrechid is an excellent example of this vision. It demonstrates that Indian industries are not only capable of meeting domestic needs but are also prepared to enhance the defence capabilities of friendly nations through partnership. This is a model of collaboration that respects sovereignty, strengthens local capacity, and contributes to global peace.”
Placing the new defence plant in the larger framework of bilateral ties, Singh highlighted the progress in India-Morocco relations, noting that cooperation had expanded into multiple sectors. “In recent years, both our countries have explored many areas where collaboration has yielded excellent results. These include renewable energy to fertilizers, information technology to tourism, and now a very important sector, defence and advanced manufacturing,” he said.
Welcoming Tata Advanced Systems Limited’s presence in Morocco, Singh remarked, “Today, as we welcome India’s leading private-sector defence enterprise to Moroccan soil, this day further strengthens our shared resolve. The establishment of this defence manufacturing facility by Tata Advanced Systems Limited is truly a historic moment. It is one of the first foreign defence manufacturing plants established by an Indian company. This is not only a significant step for Tata Advanced Systems but also for the entire Indian Defence Industry.”
Explaining the scope of the facility, Singh said, “Spread over 20,000 square feet, this facility will manufacture an advanced armoured combat vehicle, incorporating the latest attributes of mobility, protection, and firepower. This armoured platform has been developed in partnership with India’s Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO). It is a testament to India’s indigenous defence technology and the research and development ecosystem we have built in recent years.”
He emphasized the project’s focus on local participation. “The commitment to local integration makes this project special. From the beginning, nearly one-third of the components and sub-systems will be sourced and assembled in Morocco, and in the coming years, the share of local value-addition is expected to reach half of total production,” Singh said.
The minister stressed that the initiative went beyond trade, symbolizing a long-term partnership. “This is not just an export-import transaction, but a real partnership that builds capacity within Morocco and lays a strong foundation for shared development,” he said.
Highlighting the broader benefits, Singh added, “The economic benefits of this cooperation are as significant as its technological benefits. This plant will create numerous direct and indirect jobs, providing opportunities for Moroccan engineers, technicians, and skilled workers. It will also develop the local ecosystem of suppliers and small businesses, promote innovation, and generate a wave of development in Casablanca and surrounding areas.”
He further emphasized the strategic importance of the facility, highlighting Morocco’s geographic position and India’s expanding industrial base. “This plant serves as a bridge between the region and the global market. Morocco has long been recognized as a gateway to Africa and a natural link between Europe, the Middle East, and the Atlantic. India, with its growing technological and industrial base, has emerged as a rising hub of innovation and a reliable partner of the Global South. Therefore, this plant will benefit both countries,” Singh said.
The inauguration was part of Singh’s ongoing two-day official visit to Morocco. He arrived in Morocco on Sunday, marking the first-ever trip by an Indian Defence Minister to the country. Singh was received at Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport by the Head Wali of the Military Command of Casablanca and the Indian Ambassador to Morocco, Sanjay Rana. Members of the Indian community, including the President of the Indian Association, also turned out in large numbers to welcome the minister.
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