The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria–D7G (DICON–D7G) has achieved a major milestone in its renewed drive for domestic weapons production, manufacturing nearly 1,000 units of the upgraded DG-103 assault rifle within just two months. The rifles are being produced at the corporation’s Kaduna facility, marking one of the fastest ramp-ups in Nigeria’s small-arms industry in recent years. According to local reports, this achievement reflects the growing efficiency and technical capabilities of the DICON–D7G partnership.
The DG-103 is a locally licensed variant of Russia’s AK-103 assault rifle, chambered for the widely used 7.62×39mm M43 cartridge. The Nigerian-built weapon delivers a cyclic rate of around 600 rounds per minute, a muzzle velocity exceeding 700 meters per second, and an effective firing range of up to 500 meters. These performance metrics place the rifle among the most reliable and combat-ready weapons being produced domestically.
Beyond small-arms production, DICON–D7G is preparing for large-scale manufacturing of ammunition, with a target capacity of 60 million rounds annually. The consortium has also expanded into advanced defense systems, including tactical drones and anti-drone platforms with early-warning features designed to strengthen battlefield intelligence and troop protection.
D7G President Chennar described these developments as a major breakthrough for Nigeria’s defense industrialization agenda. He emphasized that the collaboration represents a strategic leap toward self-reliance, indigenous capability development, and enhanced national security preparedness. The DICON–D7G partnership, a joint initiative between the state-owned Defence Industries Corporation and D7G Company Limited, is positioned to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s modern military manufacturing ecosystem.
