AK-203 Rifles: Amethi Unit Set to Finish 6.01 Lakh Order Early
Why in the news
Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) is on track to finish its order of 6.01 lakh AK-203 assault rifles well before time. The completion target has moved from October 2032 to December 2030, a gain of 22 months.
Key facts
- IRRPL: a joint venture formed under an inter-governmental agreement between India and Russia.
- Location: Korwa Ordnance Factory, Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, an 8.5-acre facility with over 260 staff.
- Around 48,000 rifles delivered so far, with 15,000 more planned by December 2025.
- Planned capacity: 1.5 lakh rifles a year.
- The rifle is meant to replace INSAS rifles used along the northern and western borders.
| Parameter | Detail |
|---|---|
| Order size | 6.01 lakh rifles (601,427 under the December 2021 contract) |
| Production began | January 2023 |
| Original deadline | October 2032 |
| New target | December 2030 |
| Ownership | 50.5% Indian, 49.5% Russian |
| Calibre | 7.62 mm |
About IRRPL
The partners are Rosoboronexport and Concern Kalashnikov from Russia, and Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited and Munitions India Limited from India. Each rifle goes through about 120 manufacturing processes.
Exam angle
- Remember the place: Korwa, Amethi, and the weapon: AK-203.
- Link with Make in India in defence and replacement of INSAS.
- Sources differ on contract value, so avoid fixating on the rupee figure.