Agreement between India and Russia to manufacture AK-203 Kalashnikov rifle at Amethi

An important decision of the Central Government before the Uttar Pradesh elections

Indian forces will use Kalashnikov rifles instead of INSAS rifles

New Delhi: India and Russia have agreed to manufacture 6 lakh AK 203 assault rifles at a new factory in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh. The Kalashnikov rifle will replace the Indian forces' Insas rifle.

This step of the Central Government is considered important before the Assembly elections to be held in Uttar Pradesh next year. The Defense Ministry on Tuesday approved a deal between Russia and India to manufacture 6 lakh AK-203 assault rifles at a new factory in Amethi. The decision was taken by the Defense Acquisition Council ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to India.

These rifles will be built as a joint venture. According to experts, the modern incarnation of AK-47 could prove to be important for the AK-203 Indian forces. It is noteworthy that the National Rifle Units and Infantry Regiments of the Indian Army make the most use of Kalashnikovs.

As per the agreement, 6,01,427 AK203 assault rifles will be manufactured at the new factory in Amethi, India and Russia. The first 70,000 rifles will use Russian-made components as part of the technology transfer process between the two countries.

The first batch of 70,000 rifles will be delivered to the Indian Army 32 months after the commencement of production. According to the Russian Defense Export Agency, AK-203 assault rifles were known for their accuracy and strength. The agency also said that the rifle has undergone a number of improvements in modern design to make it more durable.