India is advancing its strategic arsenal by developing two indigenous versions of the Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), including a powerful bunker buster, according to Deutsche Welle. The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is spearheading the project.
The new bunker buster variant of Agni-5 will be capable of penetrating 80 to 100 meters deep into reinforced concrete structures and can carry up to 7,500 kilograms of explosives, with an operational range of 2,500 kilometers at supersonic speeds. This missile is designed to target fortified underground military facilities, command centers, missile storage areas, and weapons depots.
The second version will retain Agni-5’s existing capabilities to deliver nuclear warheads at ranges exceeding 5,000 kilometers, further strengthening India’s deterrence posture.
Military experts note that the development mirrors the US GBU-57 bunker buster, recently used against Iranian nuclear facilities. Former Indian Army Lieutenant General Utpal Bhattacharya emphasized its strategic value, explaining that such missiles can penetrate deep underground and explode in multiple stages to maximize damage.
The indigenous bunker buster is considered vital in modern warfare as adversaries increasingly build underground command and control centers, weapons storage, and critical infrastructure. Bhattacharya noted that India’s missile will enhance national security by acting as a strong deterrent and expanding military strike capabilities against deeply buried targets.
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