SOURCE: AFI
In a recent development, the Royal Moroccan Armed Forces (RMAF) officially confirmed that the Indian WhAP 8×8 Armored Fighting Vehicle (AFV) outperformed the Chinese Type-08 during a series of rigorous trials. According to information from the Atlantic Observatory, these tests were part of Morocco’s international tender process, aimed at selecting a reliable 8×8 AFV for the RMAF, with the stipulation that any selected vehicle must come with the ability to transfer technology and establish a local production line in Morocco. In a highly competitive trial, India’s WhAP 8×8 AFV emerged as the superior choice.
The trials, which began with the WhAP 8×8’s arrival in Morocco in 2022, lasted over four months. The vehicles underwent extensive testing across varied terrains, including mountainous and hard-to-reach areas that were especially challenging. The WhAP, designed by Tata Advanced Systems in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India, met and exceeded RMAF’s performance benchmarks. In contrast, the Chinese Type-08, developed by NORINCO (also known as 08-ZBL), struggled during these tests, encountering technical issues that ultimately contributed to its elimination from consideration.
Key features that influenced the RMAF’s final decision included the WhAP’s Cummins 600-horsepower diesel engine, coupled with the Allison 4500SP automatic transmission—components widely respected for their durability and high performance. These features proved critical in the WhAP’s ability to navigate Morocco’s challenging topography without significant issues, marking it as a more versatile and robust option than its Chinese competitor.
Morocco is rapidly advancing its military industrial capabilities and plans to establish a production line for the WhAP 8×8 AFV in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems. The initial plan includes manufacturing 150 vehicles for the RMAF, with a projected goal of increasing this to 400 units to bolster Morocco’s defense capacities and develop the expertise to export to other African nations. The factory will have an annual production capacity of 100 vehicles, providing Morocco with significant autonomy in defense manufacturing.
Morocco’s strategy aims at achieving a 50% domestic integration rate for the WhAP 8×8, which will stimulate local industry, create jobs, and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers. This move is set to position Morocco as a defense manufacturing hub within the African continent, with Tata’s experience in defense systems and Morocco’s growing industry as central players.
The WhAP 8×8 is designed as a flexible platform that can adapt to various operational roles. It can be equipped with an array of weapon systems, including a 30 mm cannon, a 105 mm gun, anti-armor missiles, or even short-range air defense systems, making it versatile for multiple combat scenarios. Its modular structure allows it to accommodate additional armor, advanced surveillance sensors, and situational awareness systems, tailored to mission requirements. This adaptability is a key reason why the Indian Army has opted for the WhAP over traditional Russian BTR platforms, as it offers a modernized solution with better crew comfort and performance.
The contract between Tata Advanced Systems and Morocco’s National Defense Administration represents a significant step in the Indo-Moroccan defense partnership. This collaboration leverages Tata’s expertise in both civil and defense manufacturing to deliver a scalable and customizable armored vehicle platform. Beyond fulfilling Morocco’s needs, this agreement will provide Tata with a foothold in the African defense market, creating mutual benefits for both nations.
Technical Specifications of the WhAP 8×8
The WhAP 8×8, weighing approximately 24 tons, offers a high level of mobility and protection. Key specifications include:
Active Protection System: Can be fitted with active protection against missiles and chemical or biological threats
Length: 7.85 meters
Width: 3.0 meters
Height: 2.5 meters
Crew Capacity: Accommodates three crew members and up to nine fully equipped soldiers.
Engine: Cummins ISXe diesel engine with 600 horsepower
Speed: Maximum road speed of 100 km/h, amphibious version offers 10 km/h in water
Range: 500 km on-road, 250 km off-road
Armor: Composite armor with ballistic protection against up to 14.5 mm bullets
Mine Protection: V-shaped hull designed to disperse explosive forces from mines and IEDs