New Delhi (Agencies): A Russian-Indian joint venture has submitted a bid to supply Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifles to the police force in Kerala, marking a new development in the partnership between the two nations. This announcement came from Russian arms exporter Rosoboronexport on Tuesday.
The rifles are manufactured by Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL), a collaboration between Rosoboronexport, the Kalashnikov Concern, and two state-owned Indian firms—Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited and Munitions India Limited. The joint venture, which began operations in 2023, produces the AK-203 rifles in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, aligning with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Rosoboronexport CEO Aleksandr Mikheev highlighted the adaptability of the AK-203 rifles, stating, “The capacities of the Korwa Ordnance Factory make it possible to equip the personnel of the Ministry of Defense and other law enforcement agencies of India with AK-203 assault rifles.”
The joint venture has already delivered over 35,000 rifles to the Indian Army, with plans to manufacture nearly 600,000 units over the next decade. The rifles are built using advanced Russian technology and certified equipment, ensuring high quality and functionality.
The collaboration also positions the venture to explore exports to third countries. Earlier this year, reports indicated that India was considering exporting the AK-203 rifles to Nepal to replace older weaponry, signaling further growth in its arms manufacturing industry.
The project reflects the deepening defense ties between Russia and India, while also advancing India’s goal of strengthening its domestic arms production and boosting self-reliance in defense manufacturing.