Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), a Hyderabad-based company, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Indian firm to establish a defence manufacturing facility in a foreign country. The new facility, located in Berrechid, Morocco, was inaugurated by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh during his visit from September 22 to 23.

Pioneering Move in African Defence Manufacturing

The Berrechid facility marks a historic moment as the first Indian defence manufacturing unit on the African continent. It will focus on producing the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP), a combat vehicle jointly designed by Tata Advanced Systems and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

WhAP: Advanced Combat Vehicle

The WhAP is a state-of-the-art combat vehicle that boasts:

• Eight-wheel drive capability for versatile operations on land and water
• Advanced armor protection against ballistics and mines
• Cutting-edge design for modern warfare scenarios

From 'Make in India' to 'Make for the World'

This development represents a significant shift in India's defence manufacturing strategy, transitioning from 'Make in India' to 'Make for the World'. It underscores India's growing global footprint in the defence manufacturing sector and its ability to compete on an international scale.

Tata Advanced Systems: A Diverse Defence Portfolio

TASL has established itself as a key player in the defence industry, with a diverse range of products and services including:

• Manufacturing of trucks and tanks
• Production of drones
• Provision of solutions for parts and assembly lines for fighter jet engine manufacturers

Strategic Implications

The establishment of this facility in Morocco is expected to:

• Strengthen India's position in the global defence market
• Enhance bilateral relations between India and Morocco
• Potentially open doors for further collaborations in the African defence sector

This move by Tata Advanced Systems not only showcases India's growing capabilities in defence manufacturing but also sets a precedent for other Indian companies looking to expand their global presence in the defence sector.

Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has achieved a significant milestone in India's defense sector, becoming the first Indian company to successfully manufacture and commission a state-of-the-art naval surveillance radar system. This breakthrough marks a crucial step towards India's goal of defense self-reliance.

Collaboration with Spanish Defense Giant

TASL, in collaboration with Spanish defense company Indra, has successfully produced and installed a 3D Air Surveillance Radar, known as Lanza-N, aboard an Indian Navy warship. This achievement underscores TASL's growing capabilities in advanced defense technologies and its commitment to supporting India's naval defense infrastructure.

Rigorous Testing and Integration

The Lanza-N radar system has undergone extensive sea trials, demonstrating its reliability and effectiveness in maritime environments. Following these rigorous tests, the radar has been fully integrated with the warship's existing systems, enhancing the vessel's surveillance and defense capabilities.

Localization and Manufacturing Infrastructure

To support this groundbreaking project and future endeavors, TASL has established a dedicated radar assembly, integration, and testing facility in Karnataka. This facility is expected to play a crucial role in accelerating the production and delivery of these advanced radar systems for the Indian Navy.

Bengaluru Radar Factory

As part of the collaboration, a radar factory has been set up in Bengaluru. This facility focuses on localizing system integration and assembly processes, aligning with India's broader objectives of achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

Implications for India's Defense Sector

This development represents a significant leap forward for India's defense industry. By demonstrating the capability to build and integrate next-generation naval surveillance radar systems, TASL is paving the way for:

• Reduced dependence on foreign defense technologies
• Growth of domestic defense manufacturing capabilities
• Enhanced operational capabilities for the Indian Navy
• Positioning TASL as a key player in India's defense modernization

The successful commissioning of the Lanza-N radar system not only strengthens India's naval defense but also contributes to the nation's journey towards defense modernization and self-sufficiency.