Russia Delivers 35,000 AK-203 Assault Rifles to Indian Army.

A Russian-Indian collaboration, Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited, has successfully produced and delivered 35,000 Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifles to the Indian Ministry of Defense. This joint venture, based in India, includes Rosoboronexport and Kalashnikov Concern under Russia's Rostec State Corporation. This information was shared by Rostec on 5 July 2024.
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The AK-203 assault rifle is a modern firearm originating from Russia, designed by the renowned engineer Mikhail Kalashnikov between 2007 and 2010. (Picture source: Rostec)

The AK-203, tailored for the Indian Army, is a variant of the AK-200 series chambered for the 7.62×39 mm cartridge. It retains the reliability and ease of maintenance characteristic of Kalashnikov rifles.

"Rostec's extensive range of proven weaponry, including advanced small arms, is exemplified by the production of the AK-203. India, as the first international customer, has initiated local production under the Make In India and Self-Sufficient India programs, which include technology transfer and aim for 100% localization," stated Sergey Chemezov, CEO of Rostec State Corporation.

These AK-203 rifles are produced in India using proprietary Russian technologies and certified equipment, ensuring high product quality and adherence to specifications.

Alexander Mikheev, Director General of Rosoboronexport, remarked, "The completion of the first phase of the AK-203 manufacturing project by Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited is a testament to the robust cooperation between Russia and India. Essential equipment was sent to the Korwa Ordnance Factory in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, enabling the timely production and delivery of 35,000 rifles to the Indian Army as per the agreed schedule with the Ministry of Defense."

The AK-203 assault rifle is a modern firearm originating from Russia, designed by the renowned engineer Mikhail Kalashnikov between 2007 and 2010. Manufactured by Kalashnikov Concern and Indo-Russia Rifles, the AK-203 represents an evolution of the Kalashnikov rifle series, incorporating contemporary technologies and materials.

Weighing 3.8 kg, this rifle measures between 880 and 940 mm in length with the stock extended, while its barrel is 415 mm long. The AK-203 uses 7.62×39mm cartridges, known for their power and efficiency. Its mechanism is based on a gas-operated action with a rotating bolt, allowing a firing rate of approximately 700 rounds per minute.

With an initial velocity of 715 m/s, the AK-203 offers an effective firing range between 400 and 800 meters, depending on sight adjustments. The weapon is fed by a 30-round detachable box magazine, although a 50-round quad-column magazine can also be used for increased capacity.

The AK-203 is equipped with adjustable iron sights, and picatinny rails allow the addition of various optical sighting systems, providing great flexibility and adaptability on the battlefield. This rifle, designed to combine robustness and performance, continues the legacy of Kalashnikov while meeting the demands of modern armed forces.

Ongoing and future Russian-Indian military-technical cooperation projects are highly focused on technological collaboration, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations in the defense sector.