India to develop indigenous hypersonic bunker-buster missiles to match global powers

Amid rising global security challenges and following the recent U.S. strike using GBU-57/A Massive Ordnance Penetrators on Iran’s Fordow nuclear site, India has accelerated efforts to create its own advanced bunker-buster missile capabilities. Led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the initiative involves transforming the Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile into a high-impact conventional weapon designed to destroy heavily fortified underground targets.

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Unlike the original nuclear-capable Agni-5 with a range of over 5,000 km, the new variant is expected to carry an enormous 7,500 kg warhead, optimized to breach 80 to 100 metres of reinforced concrete before detonation. Though its range may reduce to around 2,500 km, its sheer firepower and accuracy mark a significant leap in India’s conventional strike capabilities.

The new development is part of a two-pronged strategy, with DRDO also working on a second Agni-5 variant equipped with an airburst warhead for above-ground strategic targets. The deep-penetration version, however, is gaining the most attention for its potential to rival the GBU-57—the world’s most powerful non-nuclear bunker buster.

India’s approach differs from that of the U.S., which relies on heavy bomber aircraft to deliver such munitions. Instead, India is designing its bunker-buster for missile delivery, offering greater operational flexibility and cost-efficiency. With anticipated speeds ranging between Mach 8 and Mach 20, these weapons will enter the elite category of hypersonic missiles, significantly enhancing India’s deterrence and offensive capabilities.

These advancements are seen as crucial in maintaining regional balance, particularly in the context of potential threats from hardened enemy assets in China and Pakistan. Moreover, this move highlights India’s strategic intent to boost indigenous defence manufacturing and reduce dependency on foreign systems.