AK-203 assault rifle: This killer weapon, which can fire 700 rounds per minute, will soon replace Indian Army's INSAS

The Indian Army will soon have  'made in India' AK-203 assault rifles, as Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) is set to deliver as many as 6.01 lakh rifles to the armed forces nearly 22 months ahead of the scheduled delivery.

 

The latest evolution of the Kalashnikov series, AK-203 assault rifle combines the reliability of the AK platform with modern features such as improved ergonomics, advanced optics compatibility, and increased adaptability for various combat environments. AK-203 will become the primary assault rifle for soldiers deployed along the northern and western borders, including the Line of Control and the Line of Actual Control. 

 

The 7.62×39 mm calibre weapon, weighing about four kilograms, can fire 700 rounds per minute. It has an aiming range of 800 metres and features adjustable iron sights, advanced recoil control, telescopic/collapsible stock, and compatibility with optics and tactical gear.

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Nicknamed 'Sher' in India, these assault rifles will replace the INSAS (Indian National Small Arms System) in service to become the frontline weapon.

 

Early delivery 

 

IRRPL, a joint venture company which manufactures AK-203 assault rifles in Uttar Pradesh's Amethi, was expected to complete the delivery of these rifles by October 2032. However, reports now say that these will be now delivered by December 2030.

 

"Around 48,000 rifles have been delivered so far. Another 7,000 will be handed over in the next two to three weeks, and 15,000 additional by December this year," Maj Gen S.K. Sharma, CEO and managing director of IRRPL said.

 

Described as the "younger brother of BrahMos" by Maj Gen Sharma, IRRPL has 50.5 per cent Indian shareholding and 49.5 per cent Russian stake. It operates from an 8.5-acre facility in Amethi. The workflow is overseen by a board of directors comprising four representatives each from India and Russia, besides senior defence officials, reports news agency PTI.

 

Each rifle undergoes 120 processes. According to Maj Gen Sharma, "every rifle goes through 120 hands," and comprises around 50 components and 180 sub-parts.

 

"Every material now has an alternate source in India," he added, noting that quality control is being developed into "one of the finest in the country".

Defence