Made-in-India AK-203 ‘Sher’ Set for Army Induction
What Happened
India’s indigenous AK-203 assault rifle, named ‘Sher’, is ready for induction into the Indian Army, according to Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) CEO Major General Sudhish Kumar Sharma. The rifle is being manufactured at the Korwa ordnance facility in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, under the India-Russia AK-203 programme, with IRRPL aiming to complete deliveries ahead of the contractual deadline.
Key Takeaways
The AK-203 ‘Sher’ programme is a significant boost to Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing. Domestic production of over 600,000 rifles is expected to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen the Indian Army's small-arms capability with a modern, locally manufactured weapon system.