India Test-Fires Fully Indigenous AK-203 Sher
India has successfully manufactured and test-fired the first fully indigenised AK-203 assault rifle, named “Sher”, at the Korwa ordnance facility in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh. The prototype was produced using Indian-made components and input materials, marking a major milestone in the domestic rifle manufacturing programme.
AK-203 Sher Achieves Full Indigenisation
The rifle has been produced by Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited, the India-Russia joint venture responsible for manufacturing AK-203 rifles in the country.
The company said the Sher prototype was manufactured using components and materials sourced from Indian industry. Initial firing tests, including burst firing, have been completed, with further evaluations planned before the weapon enters wider production.
The achievement represents a significant step towards reducing dependence on imported components in India’s small-arms programme.
Indian Army Trials Expected From September
Multiple fully indigenised AK-203 prototypes are expected to be provided to the Indian Army for formal user trials beginning in September 2026.
The successful factory firing does not constitute final Army acceptance, with the rifle still required to clear prescribed operational and performance evaluations.
The AK-203 uses the 7.62×39 mm cartridge and a 30-round magazine. It is designed as a modernised version of the Kalashnikov assault rifle platform for frontline military use.
Amethi Plant Ramps Up AK-203 Production
The Indian Army’s requirement runs into several lakh AK-203 rifles as the weapon gradually replaces older infantry rifles.
Production at the Amethi facility is being progressively localised, with the programme intended to create a domestic supply chain for components, materials and manufacturing expertise.
The fully indigenised Sher prototype strengthens India’s broader push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing and indigenous weapons production.
