The Indo-Russian joint venture, titled “Indo-Russian Rifles Private Ltd (IRRPL),” has garnered recent attention in news outlets. This venture, strategically located in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, will be manufacturing over 6.1 lakh AK-203 assault rifles which are valued at over ₹5,000 crore. The training of Indian workers is slated to begin soon, and the venture aims to achieve 100% indigenisation within a span of three years. The AK-203 assault rifles will serve as a replacement for the Indian-made INSAS assault rifles and older models of the AK-47.
About the Contract
The Indo-Russian Rifles Private Ltd (IRRPL) was established as a collaborative venture between India’s Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL) and Munitions India Limited (MIL) [formerly known as the Ordnance Factory Board OFB], and Russia’s Rosoboronexport (RoE) and concern Kalashnikov. The deal, which costs a whopping Rs 5,124 crore, was signed in December 2021, marking one of the most significant defence deals between the two nations in recent history. A noteworthy clause within this agreement allows for a complete technology transfer. Additionally, these rifles may also see export to friendly overseas nations. Kalashnikov has already completed the first leg of the order by delivering a batch of 70,000 Russian-made rifles.
India-Russia Defence and Security Relations
The military-technical cooperation between India and Russia has evolved significantly over time, progressing from a buyer-seller dynamic to one that promotes joint research, development, and production of advanced defence technologies and systems. Both countries continually engage in the ‘INDRA’ tri-services exercise. Some notable joint programs between India and Russia include the BrahMos cruise missile programme, the 5th generation fighter jet programme, the Sukhoi Su-30MKI programme, the Ilyushin/HAL Tactical Transport Aircraft, and the KA-226T twin-engine utility helicopters.
Russia has also been the source of several military hardware purchases/leases by India. These include the S-400 Triumf, the Kamov Ka-226 helicopter which is due to be manufactured in India as part of the ‘Make in India’ initiative, the T-90S Bhishma, and significant contributions to the INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier programme.
Russian Involvement in India’s Submarine Programmes
Russia’s role extends beyond just the joint production of rifles and extends into significant assistance in developing the Indian Navy’s submarine programmes. India’s first-ever submarine, the ‘Foxtrot Class’, was acquired from Russia. Additionally, India’s nuclear submarine programme relies heavily on Russian assistance. The sole aircraft carrier operated by India, INS Vikramaditya, is also originally Russian. More than half of the conventional submarines operated by India, approximately nine out of fourteen, are of Russian origin.
Comparing Indo-US and Indo-Russian Defence Deals
An interesting point of discussion is the comparison of Indo-US defence deals with Indo-Russian ones. Contextualising this comparison within the realm of stability in the Indo-Pacific region can yield valuable insights. This topic has been examined as part of previous years’ question papers in the UPSC Civil Services Examination.
