AK-203 assault rifles production in Amethi to start by the end of 2022: Russian officials

New Delhi: The production of AK-203 assault rifles in a small arms factory at Uttar Pradesh Amethi is set to begin before the end of the year2022, informed senior officials from Kalashnikov. However, the production of rifles will achieve its full capacity in three years. A joint venture for the production of guns was signed between both countries in the year 2021.

The production deal was signed between India’s Advanced Weapons and Equipment India (erstwhile OFB) and Russian Rosoboronexport. It is reported that the joint venture faced multiple challenges like payment-related issues and technology transfer agreements.

The officials, aware of the development, said all necessary equipment will be shipped out to India shortly. Kalashnikov has already delivered a batch of 70,000 rifles from Russia.

“A team of Russian engineers have visited the factory and have already trained personnel in India to manufacture the rifles. As the equipment arrives, we will assist in setting up the production units,” a Kalashnikov official said.

Deal of Ak-203 assault rifles signed in 2021

The deal to make India self-reliant in defence manufacturing was signed in the year 2021. Under the deal, over five lakh AK series rifles will be manufactured over a period of 10 years.

The deal will also create a lot of employment opportunities and will open up business opportunities for various MSMEs.