This year, the Indian Army is set to receive 70,000 AK-203 assault rifles. According to defense sources, an additional 100,000 units will be delivered by 2026. This delivery is part of a significant deal with Russia aimed at equipping Indian soldiers with one of the world's most advanced and reliable assault rifles. By 2024, the Indian Army had already received 35,000 of these rifles.
Manufactured in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, under a joint Indo-Russian venture, the AK-203 is gradually replacing the outdated INSAS rifles currently in service. The AK-203 rifles will have 30% indigenous material this year, with that percentage increasing in subsequent shipments. Boasting superior ergonomics, durability, and adaptability, the AK-203 offers heightened firepower, making it ideal for various combat scenarios, including counter-terrorism operations and high-altitude warfare.
The AK-203 is a modern version of the legendary Kalashnikov series, providing better accuracy and lightweight construction, along with advanced optics and accessories compatibility. It chambers 7.62×39 mm ammunition, delivering greater stopping power compared to 5.56 mm INSAS rifles.
Source: aajtak
Rifles Crafted Under 'Make in India'
This purchase aligns with India's broader defense localization goals under the 'Make in India' initiative, ensuring that most rifles are domestically manufactured by the Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) joint venture. This not only boosts India's self-reliance in arms production but also strengthens bilateral defense ties with Russia.
With tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and recurring cross-border threats from Pakistan, modernizing the army's weaponry has been a priority for the Indian military. The AK-203 provides troops with a robust, easy-to-maintain, battle-proven firearm, significantly enhancing their operational readiness.
Deal Struck in 2021
The AK-203 contract is an agreement between India and Russia to produce AK-203 assault rifles in India. Signed in July 2021, the contract is valued at over ₹5,000 crore. It involves a joint venture between Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) and Rosoboronexport (RoE), which will produce over 610,000 AK-203 rifles. It includes technology transfer from Russia.
Source: aajtak
Distinctive Features of the AK-203 Rifle
The AK-203 rifle is shorter and lighter than the INSAS. The INSAS without magazine and bayonet weighs about 4.15 KG, whereas the AK-203 weighs 3.8 KG. The INSAS measures 960 mm in length, but the AK-203 is just 705 mm long. Its reduced weight and length allow soldiers to carry it for extended periods without tiring as quickly.
The AK-203 uses 7.62x39mm bullets, which are more lethal. The INSAS uses 5.56x45mm rounds. The INSAS has a range of 400 meters, while the AK-203 boasts an 800-meter range—meaning enemies can be targeted from much farther away. The INSAS fires single shots and three-round bursts, but the AK-203 can operate in semi-automatic and automatic modes. The INSAS excels in one aspect, however: It can fire 650 rounds per minute compared to the AK-203's 600 rounds per minute.
The INSAS uses magazines with 20 to 30 rounds, whereas the AK-203 fits a 30-round box magazine. The muzzle velocity of the INSAS is 915 meters per second, while the AK-203's is 715 meters per second, meaning the INSAS fires bullets at a higher speed. Both rifles operate on gas-operated, rotating bolt mechanics.
The INSAS features built-in iron sights and mount points for attaching scopes to spot enemies from a distance. In comparison, the AK-203 is more advanced with adjustable iron sights and a Picatinny rail, allowing users to mount a wide array of scopes from around the world, resulting in a much more potent attack with the right optical equipment.
