Why in News?
Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) has successfully manufactured and test-fired the first 100% indigenous AK-203 assault rifle, named ‘Sher’ at its facility in Korwa, Amethi, Uttar Pradesh.
Key Highlights
- The first 100% Indian-made AK-203 ‘Sher’ has been successfully manufactured and test-fired.
- The rifle has been produced at the Korwa ordnance facility in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh.
- All components and input materials used in the rifle have been sourced from Indian industries.
- The rifle has successfully undergone firing trials, including burst firing.
- IRRPL plans to manufacture more indigenous prototypes and hand them over to the Indian Army for trials in September 2026.
- The company is working towards a production rate of one rifle every 100 seconds.
- Around 6 lakh AK-203 rifles are being manufactured for the Indian Army to replace the ageing INSAS rifles.
Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited
- Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) is a joint venture established by India and Russia in 2019 to manufacture AK-203 assault rifles in India.
- The project is part of India's efforts to increase domestic defence production and reduce dependence on imported weapons and components.
- The rifles are being manufactured at the Korwa Ordnance Factory in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh.
AK-203 ‘Sher’
The AK-203 is a modern assault rifle based on the Kalashnikov platform. It uses the 7.62×39 mm cartridge and is designed for reliable performance in different operational conditions.
Key Features
- Calibre: 7.62×39 mm
- Type: Assault rifle
- Operating system: Gas-operated
- Rate of fire: Around 700 rounds per minute
- Effective range: Up to 800 metres
- Name of indigenous version: Sher
Replacement of INSAS Rifles
- The Indian Army is inducting around 6 lakh AK-203 rifles as part of its modernisation programme.
- These rifles will gradually replace the INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifles that have been in service with the Indian armed forces.