Amethi to Deliver 7,000 AK-203 Rifles to Army Soon

Lucknow | 20, July 2025 : Amethi is ready to send a new batch of AK-203 rifles to the Indian Army. The Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) will deliver 7,000 rifles in the next 2–3 weeks. So far, about 48,000 rifles have been handed over.

Why the AK-203 Rifles Matter

The AK-203 rifles are modern guns from the famous Kalashnikov family. They are strong, light, and perfect for tough missions. Soldiers use them in high-altitude areas and for counter-terrorism work. The Army will use these rifles along the borders and the Line of Actual Control.

Big Plans for Local Production

India signed a deal worth ₹5,200 crore in 2021 to make over 600,000 AK-203 rifles in Amethi. Production started in January 2023. The factory now aims to make all rifles in India by the end of 2025. Right now, 50% of the work is local. By next year, it will be 100%.

How the Amethi Rifle Factory Works

IRRPL runs an 8.5-acre factory in Amethi. It is not part of old ordnance factories. It has over 260 workers, including Russian experts. By next year, it wants to hire up to 537 people — 90% will be locals.

Each rifle goes through 120 steps. It uses 50 parts and 180 smaller pieces. The rifles can fire up to 15,000 rounds. Once fully ready, the factory will make 1.5 lakh rifles each year.

India’s Big Defence Goal

These AK-203 rifles will replace old INSAS rifles. The goal is clear — stronger soldiers, better weapons, and more jobs at home. The rifles will also help India stand strong against threats along the borders.

What’s Next?

Amethi’s factory plans to deliver all rifles by December 2030. After that, India may export these rifles to friendly nations. This shows India’s strength under ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.

The AK-203 rifles will give our soldiers an edge. With local production and global help, India’s defence sector is moving ahead with full power.

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