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Defence
India fires its first fully indigenous AK-203 ‘Sher’ rifle in Amethi
✍️ Times of India
🗓 23 Aug 2026, 07:40 AM
👁 2
The Indian defence establishment successfully test‑fired the AK‑203 ‘Sher’, the first rifle produced entirely with domestic components, at a range in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh.
New Delhi – In a landmark event for India’s defence manufacturing, the AK‑203 rifle designated ‘Sher’ was test‑fired for the first time at a shooting range in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh. The weapon is the first version of the AK‑203 series to be built wholly with indigenous parts, marking a significant step toward self‑reliance in small‑arms production.
Officials from the Ministry of Defence highlighted that the indigenous development aligns with the country’s broader ‘Make in India’ strategy for the armed forces. The name ‘Sher’, meaning lion, reflects the intended robustness and firepower of the platform.
The successful trial is expected to pave the way for larger‑scale production and eventual induction into the Indian Army, further reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthening domestic defence capabilities.
Officials from the Ministry of Defence highlighted that the indigenous development aligns with the country’s broader ‘Make in India’ strategy for the armed forces. The name ‘Sher’, meaning lion, reflects the intended robustness and firepower of the platform.
The successful trial is expected to pave the way for larger‑scale production and eventual induction into the Indian Army, further reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthening domestic defence capabilities.