India has inked a major deal worth over ₹5,100 crores with Russia, for producing AK-203 assault rifle deal within the country, people familiar with the development said on Monday.
The production of AK-203 rifles will commence in India now that the initiative, which is a joint venture with Russia, has received final approval from the Centre.
According to sources, an Indo-Russian unit will be established in Korwa, Uttar Pradesh’s Amethi district, to produce over five lakh AK-203 assault weapons.
The AK-203 rifles, with a 7.62 x 39mm calibre, will replace the INSAS rifle, which was inducted over 30 years ago. The rifle is lightweight and has a 300-meter effective range. They will improve the Indian Army’s operational efficacy in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.
According to the plan, 20,000 guns will be imported straight from Russia, with over 5 lakh being made in India.
