AK-203 is a Russian assault rifle that is a part of the AK-200 series built from Kalashnikov Concern. AK-203 is one of the newest versions of the assault rifle that was first designed by Mikhail Kalashnikov in the '40s. AK-203 was designed for export sales. In the production stage, the AK-203 replaced the AK-103. India was the first buyer of the rifle and also acquired a license for its production. The contract also included the purchase of 70,000 rifles. Since 2019, AK-203 is being produced in India and the country wants to build almost 750,000 units. AK-203 will gradually replace the INSAS assault rifle of the Indian army. Although, this transition will be completed in the next 15-20 years.
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Specifications
AK-203 is a modified version of the AK-103 with improved ergonomics. The weapon features a new front and reads grim and other ergonomics upgrades. Essentially, only a few have changed from the previous AK-74M or the AK-103.
The Kalashnikov assault rifles gained their reputation due to their high reliability. However, AK-203 can not be considered a modern weapon. The rifle is not as advanced or accurate as of its Western competitors.
AK-203 shoots 7.62x39mm ammunition. These rounds are known for their impressive penetration in comparison with the Russian 5.45.39mm or the NATO 5.56x45 rounds.
The available modes are the “safe”, “semi-auto” and “full-auto”. The mode can be changed by pressing a button with the thumb.
AK-203 comes with a new rear grip and a buttstock similar to M4's one. The buttstock can be adjusted and folded.
The weapon shoots through a 30-rounds magazine, but there is also a 50-rounds magazine.
AK-203 comes with iron sights, although the Picatinny-type rail can accommodate a variety of different sights. The effective range of the gun is at 300 to 400 meters, although 7.62 bullets have impressive penetration capabilities.
The assault rifle can be fitted with a lot of other accessories like a knife-bayonet or a 40mm grenade launcher. AK-203 has a new muzzle brake that differs from other users by Kalashnikov rifles. It's possible that it was specially designed for grenade launchers due to the interest of the Indian army in such weapons.
