AK-203 to Replace INSAS: Russian Solution to Forces’ Rifle Woes?
Wednesday, March 6, 2019 IST
India has recently signed a deal with Russian arms firm Kalashnikov to manufacture 750,000 units of AK-203, the latest derivative of the AK-47 assault rifle.
The decision comes after a string of complaints on INSAS (Indian Small Arms System) rifles were received from ground troops deployed in combat areas across the country. India had been looking for a new rifle to replace the INSAS for almost a decade.
These assault rifles, which will soon be manufactured in Amethi after Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of its production unit on Sunday, 3 March, would be given to the Indian Army’s infantry troops in a progressive manner.
After the rifles are supplied to the defence forces, they will also be rolled out to the paramilitary and state police forces, ANI reported.
The idea is to provide troops – that regularly engage with terrorists or insurgents – with the advanced rifles to counter complaints of jammed or misfiring weapons in combat operations.
AK-203 vs INSAS
A head-to-head comparison of the two rifles reveals that the AK-203 is clearly the superior choice.
RIFLE ACTION
Though both rifles are gas operated with a rotary bolt-locking mechanism, the AK-203 rifle scores over the INSAS as it has a folding adjustable buttstock, ergonomic pistol grip and a selector with an additional tab for the trigger finger – making it easier to hold and operate.
WEIGHT
The AK-203 is lighter (almost 4 kg weight with empty magazine) and smaller (705 mm, stock-folded length) than the INSAS (4.25 kg weight without magazine, 960 mm), making it easier to carry.
RATE OF FIRE & ACCURACY
Although the INSAS has a superior rate of fire (650 bullets per minute) than the 203 (600 per minute), the Kalashnikov rifle is said to have near perfect accuracy.
The 203 magazine can also carry 30 bullets as opposed to INSAS’ 20. Both have an effective range of 400 metres.
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