AK-203

The prototype development of the AK-200 series began in 2007. The first prototype of the AK-200 was developed and tested in 2010.[1] In 2013, for the Ratnik programme AK-200 was modified and renamed as AK-103-3. In 2016, AK-200 series project was revived and upgraded the AK-103-3 assault rifle prototype with KM-AK kit developed as part of the Obves programme.[1] The upgraded assault rifle prototype was initially designated as AK-300 and then as AK-100M and finally in 2019 as AK-203.[1]

On March 3, 2019, Russia and India inaugurated Indo-Russia Rifles in Uttar Pradesh.[3][4] However, no contract had been signed then or rifles produced because of pricing disagreements.[5][6]

The Indian Army is procuring 670,000 AK-203 assault rifles to replace the INSAS.[7] The first 70,000 rifles were purchased from Russia in August 2021[8] with deliveries made on January 25, 2022.[9] The remaining 600,000 rifles will be manufactured under a transfer of technology agreement.[9]

In October 21, 2022, full production of AK-203s was announced at Defexpo 2022.[10]

On February 3, 2023, it was reported by Alexander Mikheev, director general of Rosoboronexport, that the first batch of AK-203s were completed at Korwa Ordnance Factory in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh.[11] On October 12, 2023, it was reported that Kalashnikov Concern completed shipment of machinery and tools for India to manufacture AK-203s.[12]

The AK-203 is chambered for 7.62×39 rounds and it can use the same AK-type magazines.[10] Its weights is 3.8 kg, the length is 690 mm with a folded butt and 930 mm with an extended butt.[10] Its rate of fire is 700 rounds per minute.[10]

•  India: Placed an order for 670,000 rifles;[13] around 70,000 would be purchased off the shelf, and the remaining 600,000 would be manufactured in India under ToT.[13] On 25 January 2022, the first batch of 70,000 AK-203s delivered to Indian Armed Forces.[14] Licensed production started in January 2023.[15]
•  Russia: In limited use by Russian Special Forces.