The Indian Army is on track to significantly bolster its firepower with the domestically produced AK-203 assault rifles, known as "Sher" within India. These rifles, a modern iteration of the renowned Kalashnikov series, are being manufactured at the Indo-Russia Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) facility in Korwa, Amethi, Uttar Pradesh. This initiative aligns with the "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat" campaigns, aimed at achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

The AK-203 project is a joint venture between India and Russia, with IRRPL having 50.5% Indian shareholding and 49.5% Russian stake. This collaboration facilitates the transfer of technology from Russia, enabling India to progressively indigenize the production of these rifles. As of mid-2025, 50% of the rifle's components and manufacturing processes are already localized. IRRPL aims to achieve 100% indigenization by the end of 2025, which will further accelerate production and delivery timelines.

The Indian Army has placed an order for over 600,000 AK-203 rifles. As of July 2025, IRRPL has already delivered 48,000 rifles to the Indian Army. An additional 7,000 units are slated for delivery within the next 2-3 weeks, and another 15,000 are expected by December 2025. IRRPL anticipates delivering a total of 70,000 rifles by the end of 2025. Following complete indigenization, the production rate is projected to increase to 12,000 units per month, translating to an annual output of 105,000 rifles. IRRPL is committed to completing the entire order by December 2030, nearly two years ahead of the original schedule.

The AK-203 is designed to replace the older INSAS rifles currently in service. The AK-203 boasts superior accuracy, improved ergonomics, and greater adaptability for various combat scenarios. It can fire 700 rounds per minute and has an effective range of 800 meters. These rifles will be deployed along the northern and western borders, including the Line of Control (LoC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The full-scale production of AK-203 rifles signifies a major leap towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing and is projected to bolster the firepower capabilities of the Indian Army. With its advanced features and indigenous production, the "Sher" is poised to become the mainstay of India's infantry forces, enhancing the nation's defense capabilities.