The well-known Russian arms manufacturer Kalashnikov Concern has entered into a licensing agreement with an Indian partner for the local production of the MP-155 shotgun in India. This is the company that produces the AK-47. This was reported by Alan Lushnikov, CEO of Kalashnikov Concern. This agreement is considered a significant step towards strengthening defense cooperation between India and Russia.
The MP-155 was originally developed as a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun for hunting, but it has proven effective against low-flying unmanned aerial vehicles in modern combat zones. This shotgun was created at the Izhevsk Mechanical Plant and began mass production in 2012. It is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun capable of using 12/76 and 12/89 caliber cartridges.
The weight of the MP-155 is approximately from 3.15 to 3.8 kilograms, and thanks to the use of aluminum alloy, it is characterized by lightness and good balance. In addition to the standard hunting version, tactical and anti-drone modifications are available. The anti-drone version is equipped with elements such as a Picatinny rail, a red dot sight, a night vision device, and an extended magazine. When using special ammunition, it can hit small and fast drones at a distance of 50 to 100 meters.
The growing use of FPV and kamikaze drones in modern warfare makes this weapon relevant. Military personnel use it to destroy drones at close range because traditional rifles are less effective against small and fast targets, whereas shot shells cover a larger area.
Kalashnikov Concern already manufactures AK-203 assault rifles in India through the company Indo-Russian Rifles Private Limited. This factory operates with technology transfer in Amate. The licensing agreement for the MP-155 is an expansion of this cooperation. However, information about the name of the Indian partner, the place of production, volume, and timelines has not yet been disclosed. Production will be carried out with technical support from Russia, with a gradual increase in the share of local components.
This step aligns with India's policy of achieving self-sufficiency. India is working on finding both domestic and foreign solutions to counter the drone threat. Security services and armed forces are looking for inexpensive and effective means of combating drones. Weapons like the MP-155 could be useful not only for the military but also for internal security services.
Combat operations, including the conflict in Ukraine, have demonstrated that the shotgun is a practical means against drones. Special ammunition damages the rotors or body of the drone, causing it to fall. Kalashnikov adapted the MP-155 specifically for this need. The company is promoting this weapon in international markets where it may be in demand in countries like India, where the risk of drone appearance is increasing both on the borders and in cities.
