In recent months, the Russian weapons manufacturer Kalashnikov has made significant strides in expanding its presence in India by signing a pact to supply small arms. This agreement was formalized during the India Homeland Security Expo, an event dedicated to showcasing equipment and technologies for national and public safety. The pact includes the provision of anti-drone shotguns, cartridges of various calibers, and pistols, which are expected to be produced and delivered by the end of the year. Maxim Karavaev, Kalashnikov's business development director in India, emphasized the growing demand for anti-drone protection, highlighting the effectiveness and proven track record of their products in this niche market. The expo itself featured a range of unmanned aerial systems, including the compact Karakurt and Goliath UAVs, as well as the SKAT 350 M high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft, known as GARUDA in India. Additionally, two specific anti-UAV guns, the Saiga and the MP-155, were showcased, designed to counter first-person view drones. This development is part of a broader strategy by Kalashnikov, which already has established partnerships with Indian entities. Notably, the company is involved in the 'Make in India' initiative, where it is manufacturing 600,000 AK-203 rifles over a ten-year period using Russian technology and certified equipment in Korda, Uttar Pradesh. This collaboration not only strengthens defense ties between Russia and India but also supports India's goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The agreement and the showcased products at the expo reflect the increasing importance of drone technology and countermeasures in modern warfare and security operations, indicating a shift in focus towards addressing emerging threats in the defense sector.
