Moscow

Production of Russia's new Kalashnikov AK-203 assault rifles in India may be launched before year-end, a senior Russian official has said.

The weapon will be manufactured at a plant in Korwa in Uttar Pradesh, according to Alexander Mikheev, the head of Rosoboronexport, the Russian state agency for international arms trade.

"We plan 100 per cent localisation of the production of the legendary Russian assault rifles in India," Mikheev said.

The AK-203 is part of the 'Series 200' of Kalashnikov's small arms, which includes several models using various popular round calibers and barrel lengths. The series features tuning options such as adjustable stocks and the Picatinny rail and other improvements. The AK-203 assault rifle is designed for the 7.62x39mm round.

Rosoboronexport gave the update on the joint enterprise with India ahead of the Defexpo India 2022 arms show, which is scheduled from Tuesday.

During the exhibition, Rosoboronexport will discuss with the Indian side the production and supply of AK-203 for the armed forces and other law enforcement agencies of the country.

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In addition, the company will present a wide range of additional modern equipment designed both for customizing the assault rifle itself and for equipping personnel.