India tests first fully indigenous AK-203 assault rifle

India has successfully tested its first AK-203 assault rifle produced entirely with indigenous components and raw materials, as part of ongoing efforts to reduce dependence on foreign weapons and achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The rifle was manufactured at the Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited factory in Korwa, situated in the Amethi district of Uttar Pradesh. The achievement highlights that every component and raw material required to build the Russian-designed weapon can now be sourced entirely within India.

India previously signed an agreement with Russia to procure 601,427 AK-203 rifles to replace the Indian Army's aging Indian Small Arms System service rifles.

Following the successful completion of initial firing trials, prototypes required for further testing by the Indian Army are currently being manufactured. Carried out under the "Make in India" programme, the project is expected to further enhance self-sufficiency across the country's defence manufacturing sector.