MOSCOW (RUSSIA) – Russian arms manufacturer Kalashnikov may consider starting the production of AK-203 assault rifle in India this year. The AK-203 is an advanced version of the AK-47.
“With Ultima we want to attract new customers who are not typically our target audience,” said Tarasov. “We are targeting customers who want to get some drive or adrenaline. Entering a semi-game niche could be an option.”
It is targeting a 60% increase in annual revenues to more than 50 billion roubles ($675.33 million) by 2025, Tarasov told in an interview.
The Ultima is an entirely new venture for the company in which state conglomerate Rostec has a 25% stake plus one share. Alan Lushnikov, a former deputy transport minister, owns a 75% stake minus one share via a firm called TKH-Invest. Featuring a built-in computer, the Ultima shotgun envisages WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity and can synchronize with smart phones. It is intended to woo younger clients such as gadget enthusiasts.
“We are hoping to launch production of AK-203 rifles at our joint venture in India this year. I feel it is a long-term trend so other examples will follow soon,” Dimitry said.
Unmanned aerial vehicles, some of which take off like a helicopter and fly like a glider carrying video cameras, are also “a very important business,” he said.
Kalashnikov also sees the market in torches, knives and other branded products as promising.
