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India AK-203 Sher rifle production

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2026-09-05 12:48 UTC → 2026-09-08 04:05 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) joint venture in Amethi has reached key milestones in the production of the indigenous AK-203 assault rifle, designated ‘Sher’. Initially, the Korwa factory successfully produced the first 100% indigenous version of the rifle, which is intended to replace the Indian Army’s INSAS rifles. This ‘Sher’ model is reportedly made entirely from Indian-sourced materials and components. Following the initial production, the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister’s Office confirmed that the rifle has successfully completed firing trials at the IRRPL facility. This achievement marks a transition from phased localization to end-to-end domestic manufacturing. The AK-203, a Russian-designed Kalashnikov pattern weapon, is expected to address reliability issues associated with the aging INSAS rifles in high-altitude conditions. As part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, IRRPL is currently producing additional prototypes for Indian Army trials. To support the programme, Adani Defence & Aerospace has signed a five-year agreement with IRRPL to supply indigenous 7.62x39 mm small-calibre ammunition. This pact is designed to create an integrated domestic supply chain, connecting rifle manufacturing with ammunition production to ensure continuity of availability. Established in 2019 through an India-Russia intergovernmental agreement, the IRRPL facility in Korwa is part of a broader effort to increase domestic defense manufacturing. The Ministry of Defence previously contracted IRRPL in December 2021 for the production of over 600,000 AK-203 rifles.

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