What is Kalashnikov AK-203 Assault Rifle?

About AK-203 Rifle:

• It is a modern firearm originating from Russia, designed by the renowned engineer Mikhail Kalashnikov between 2007 and 2010.
• It is a gas-operated, magazine-fed, select-fire assault rifle.
• It is a version of the AK-200 rifle chambered for the 62x39mm cartridge used in the Indian Army.
• The weapon has the traditional advantages of Kalashnikov assault rifles: reliability and ease of maintenance.
• These AK-203 rifles are produced in India using proprietary Russian technologies and certified equipment, ensuring high product quality and adherence to specifications.
• It will be manufactured by Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL).
  • IRRPL is a joint venture between India and Russia, set up in 2019 to produce AK-203 rifles in the Korwa Ordnance Factory in Amethi district, Uttar Pradesh.
  • The joint venture plans to ensure 100% localisation of the production of AK-203 rifles in India.
• India is the first country outside Russia which has started the production of the AK-200 series assault rifles. 
• Features of AK-203 Rifle:
  • Weighing 3.8 kg, this rifle measures between 880 and 940 mm in length with the stock extended, while its barrel is 415 mm long. 
  • Its mechanism is based on a gas-operated action with a rotating bolt, allowing a firing rate of approximately 700 rounds per minute.
  • With an initial velocity of 715 m/s, the AK-203 offers an effective firing range between 400 and 800 meters, depending on sight adjustments. 
  • The weapon is fed by a 30-round detachable box magazine, although a 50-round quad-column magazine can also be used for increased capacity.
  • It is equipped with adjustable iron sights, and picatinny rails allow the addition of various optical sighting systems.