SOURCE: AFI
In a remarkable development, Armenia and Morocco have emerged as unexpected champions of India’s defense manufacturing sector, even before the Indian Army itself has inducted some of the indigenous defense products. These two nations have recently embraced Indian-made military equipment, symbolizing the success of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative on the global stage. Armenia’s acquisition of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) and Morocco’s purchase of the WhAP 8×8 amphibious armored vehicle underscore the rising credibility of Indian defense exports.
In 2022, Armenia became the first foreign buyer of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), a state-of-the-art artillery platform developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Bharat Forge and Tata Advanced Systems. The ATAGS, with its impressive range and precision, has been a key component of India’s artillery modernization program.’
Armenia’s decision to procure the ATAGS, even before it has been formally inducted by the Indian Army, signals the confidence that the international defense market has in Indian-made weapon systems. The ATAGS boasts a 52-caliber barrel and a range exceeding 48 kilometers, making it one of the most advanced artillery systems in its class. Its ability to fire in various modes with high precision has been widely recognized, and Armenia’s move is seen as an endorsement of India’s defense manufacturing prowess.
Similarly, Morocco has chosen the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8, an amphibious armored vehicle developed by Tata Motors and the DRDO. Designed to meet modern battlefield requirements, the WhAP offers superior mobility, protection, and versatility in combat scenarios. It can be used for troop transport, reconnaissance, and other tactical roles.
What makes Morocco’s purchase significant is that the WhAP has yet to be fully inducted into the Indian Army. This is a testament to the faith that foreign militaries have placed in India’s defense technologies, proving that Indian systems are not only competitive but also desirable on the international stage. The WhAP’s adaptability to various combat conditions, especially in regions where both mobility and protection are key, makes it an attractive option for military forces like Morocco’s.
Armenia and Morocco’s acquisitions have placed them in a unique position as unofficial “Brand Ambassadors” of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This initiative, launched by the Indian government, aims to reduce dependency on foreign defense imports and encourage domestic manufacturing. However, the success of the initiative is already being reflected globally, even as the Indian Army continues its evaluation and procurement processes for these products.
The international purchase of Indian defense systems, especially by nations like Armenia and Morocco, demonstrates that India’s military hardware has garnered trust beyond its borders. By choosing Indian-made systems, these countries are highlighting the capabilities and potential of India’s defense sector, acting as symbols of India’s growing role in the global arms market.
Armenia and Morocco’s adoption of these Indian-made platforms opens new avenues for India’s defense exports. As these countries showcase the effectiveness of the ATAGS and WhAP in real-world operations, they help build credibility for India’s defense industry. Their endorsement may pave the way for further exports to other nations, particularly in regions that are looking for cost-effective and reliable alternatives to traditional Western or Russian defense equipment.