Amethi-Made AK-203 Rifles
The Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) is set to complete the delivery of 6.01 lakh AK-203 rifles nearly 22 months ahead of the planned schedule. The contract, valued at Rs 5,200 crore, was initially set to end by October 2032. However, IRRPL aims to finish by December 2030. This development marks milestone in India’s defence manufacturing capabilities.
About the AK-203 Rifle
The AK-203 is a modernised version of the Kalashnikov assault rifle series. It is designed to be the primary weapon for Indian soldiers deployed along the northern and western borders. This includes sensitive zones like the Line of Control (LoC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Each rifle undergoes 120 manufacturing processes and is made up of approximately 50 components and 180 sub-parts. The weapon has a service life of 15,000 rounds, ensuring durability in varied combat conditions.
Production and Quality Control
IRRPL has developed alternate sources for every material used in the AK-203, ensuring supply chain security within India. Quality control at the Amethi plant is being enhanced to become one of the best in the country. So far, around 48,000 rifles have been delivered. An additional 7,000 rifles are expected in the next 2-3 weeks, with 15,000 more planned by December 2025. The company plans to ramp up production to 1.5 lakh rifles annually to meet the armed forces’ demands.
Replacing the INSAS Rifle
The AK-203 is intended to replace the INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifles currently in service. Initially, 70,000 rifles were imported to meet urgent operational needs before the full-scale production began in India. The indigenous manufacturing of AK-203 rifles will enhance self-reliance in defence production and reduce dependency on imports.
About Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL)
IRRPL is located in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, operating from an 8.5-acre facility. It employs over 260 personnel, including Russian experts. Incorporated in 2019, IRRPL is a joint venture under an inter-governmental agreement between India and Russia. It combines Russian partners Rosoboronexport and Concern Kalashnikov with Indian entities Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL). This collaboration aims to establish a robust manufacturing base for modern assault rifles in India.
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