India Produces First 100% Indigenous AK-203 ‘Sher’ Rifle

India has reached a landmark in indigenous production of defence equipment with the successful manufacture and testing of the first fully indigenously developed AK-203 assault rifle christened ‘Sher’. This rifle was manufactured by Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) at their Korwa factory in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh. According to CEO and MD of IRRPL Maj Gen S K Sharma, every single component and raw material that has been used in making the prototype is made in India, thus marking a big leap towards complete indigenisation under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat programs.

Major Leap Towards Full Indigenisation

The Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) was set up as a joint venture between India and Russia in 2019 for manufacturing AK-203 assault rifles in India.

In addition to the localisation of some select components, the latest feat is about the manufacture of the very first ‘Sher’ using 100% Indian components and inputs which have been referred to by Maj Gen Sharma as “genuine indigenisation” of the platform.

The prototype has also undergone successful tests in firing including burst fire, according to reports.

Indian Army Trials to Be Held in September 2026

IRRPL is busy in the development of the required number of fully indigenous prototypes for Indian Army trials in September 2026.

These trials would be another crucial step in the validation of the indigenous version of the rifle in accordance with military requirements.

Maj Gen Sharma further stated that with an enhancement in production capability, indigenisation, and optimisation in manufacturing, IRRPL may accelerate the delivery schedule of around six lakh rifles ordered for the Indian Army by almost one year.

Production Capacity of AK-203 Sher Rifle Expected to Rise

IRRPL also plans a significant rise in its manufacturing capacity. The company plans to ultimately reach at a production capacity of manufacturing one AK-203 Sher rifle in just 100 seconds.

An increased production capacity might be used for facilitating the programme of the Indian Army of replacing ageing INSAS rifles with newly-manufactured assault rifles.

What Are the Features of AK-203 Rifle?

AK-203 is a modern, gas-operated, 7.62×39 mm assault rifle on the basis of Kalashnikov. The rifle has combined the reliability of the Kalashnikov platform with modern ergonomics and modular accessories.

Some of the major features of the rifle include,

• Calibre: 7.62×39 mm
• Rate of fire: 700 rounds per minute
• Range: 800 meters
• Gas operated mechanism
• Modern ergonomics
• Modular accessories
• Increased lethality and combat effectiveness