In a significant boost to India's defence capabilities, Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) has successfully delivered 35,000 AK-203 assault rifles to the Indian Army.
This delivery comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Russia and marks a milestone in the collaboration between India and Russia in defence production.
The production of these rifles has been carried out in India, fully aligning with the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan (Self-Reliant India) initiatives. This project is notable for its comprehensive technology transfer and the commitment to achieving 100 percent localization of AK-203 production.
Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited, a joint venture co-founded by ROSOBORONEXPORT on the Russian side, has completed the first phase of producing AK-203 Kalashnikov assault rifles in India.
Alexander Mikheev, Director General of ROSOBORONEXPORT, highlighted that all necessary equipment has been shipped to the Korwa Ordnance Factory in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh. The production facilities are now fully equipped, allowing the production and timely delivery of the 35,000 rifles to the Indian Army.
The Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifle, a variant of the AK-200 series, is chambered for the 7.62x39mm cartridge used by the Indian Army. The rifle retains the traditional advantages of Kalashnikov designs, such as reliability and ease of maintenance.
The AK-203s produced in India are manufactured using exclusive Russian technologies on certified equipment, ensuring high product quality and adherence to the specified characteristics.
This collaboration represents a significant step in strengthening India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. By producing these advanced assault rifles domestically, India not only enhances its self-reliance in defence but also builds a strong foundation for future technological advancements in the sector.
The successful delivery of the AK-203 rifles underscores the effectiveness of the joint venture and sets a precedent for further cooperation between India and Russia in defense production.
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