World · India Bureau
India successfully tests homegrown Sher assault rifle amid defence modernisation push
India has completed successful trials of the Sher, a fully indigenous assault rifle developed at the Korwa manufacturing plant in Amethi. The Indian Army is scheduled to begin its own evaluation trials of the domestically-designed weapon next September.
LSN India ·
The Sher assault rifle, based on the AK-203 platform, has passed initial testing phases at the state-run Korwa facility in Uttar Pradesh's Amethi district, according to defence sources. The development represents a significant milestone in India's push toward self-reliance in small arms manufacturing and reducing dependence on imported weaponry.
The rifle is being positioned as a modern, fully indigenous alternative to supplement India's existing inventory of assault rifles used by frontline military units. The successful completion of the current test phase clears the way for formal evaluation by the Indian Army, which is expected to commence in September 2026.
The timeline suggests defence officials are moving methodically through validation procedures before committing to potential large-scale procurement. Army trials typically assess durability, accuracy, reliability in varied terrain and climate conditions, and operational suitability for infantry units deployed across India's diverse geographical zones.
The development of the Sher underscores New Delhi's broader defence manufacturing strategy, which prioritises domestic production capabilities and technology development across military platforms. Successful indigenisation of small arms has long been identified as a priority within India's defence sector modernisation roadmap.