India And Russia JV Completes AK-203 RIfle Production
India and Russia have successfully completed the initial phase of their collaborative effort to produce AK-203 assault rifles. This joint venture is a significant achievement within the larger "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India) initiatives, highlighting India's progress in defense manufacturing through advanced technology and industrial capabilities.
Recent Developments Alexander Mikheev, the head of Rosoboronexport, announced that the Korwa Ordnance Factory in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, is now fully equipped with the necessary technology to commence large-scale production. This milestone follows the delivery of the first 35,000 rifles to the Indian Army, adhering to the agreed schedules and contractual commitments.
Production and Localisation Efforts Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited, the company spearheading this project, achieved a significant milestone by producing the first 5,000 AK-203 rifles by January of last year. With the Amethi factory now prepared to fulfill the Indian Armed Forces' demand for over 600,000 rifles, production is set to increase. Additionally, there are plans to expand into exports, aligning with India's long-term strategic objectives.
Technical Aspects and Army Testing The AK-203, an advanced version of the AK-200 series, is chambered for the 7.62x39mm cartridge, a standard in the Indian Army. The rifle has undergone extensive testing by the army and has been selected to meet urgent tactical requirements. Prior to domestic production, 70,000 rifles were rapidly procured from Russia to address immediate needs.
Contractual and Financial Details This project is backed by an intergovernmental agreement between India and Russia valued at ₹5,124 crore. The agreement includes a comprehensive transfer of technology and production rights, enabling full manufacturing of the rifles in India and bolstering the nation's defense manufacturing sector.