From Russian tech transfer to full self-reliance

India has done what once seemed unlikely: it now manufactures the AK-203 assault rifle entirely with Indian components and materials. The rifle, rebadged domestically as the 'Sher', is rolling off the production line at the Korwa factory in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh.

The milestone marks the culmination of a technology-transfer agreement with Russia, under which India has progressively built an indigenous manufacturing ecosystem around one of the world's most recognisable assault rifles. What began as a licence-built weapon with imported parts has now reached 100% localisation.

Amethi's Korwa factory at the centre

The Korwa ordnance factory in Amethi has been the focal point of the localisation drive. Beyond meeting the Indian armed forces' requirements, the facility could eventually position Amethi as an export hub for the rifle, according to reporting on the development.

"India has done what once seemed unlikely: manufacture the AK-203 entirely with Indian components and materials," the report notes, highlighting how the country built an indigenous supply chain around the platform.

Why it matters

The shift to a fully Indian-made 'Sher' reduces dependence on foreign supply chains for a critical infantry weapon and strengthens the government's self-reliance push in defence manufacturing. With export potential also on the table, the Amethi facility could play a strategic role in both domestic security and international sales.

Reporting by Shreya Chandra.