Particle.news
Download on the App Store
13 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

India Converts Agni-5 ICBM Into Hypersonic Bunker-Buster Missiles

DRDO is developing two 2,500-km-range variants with massive warheads capable of drilling 80–100 m underground in response to recent US deep-strike operations

Image
Image
The Agni-5 missiles have a range of over 5,000 kms and carries conventional weapons.

Overview

  • The Defence Research and Development Organisation has repurposed the Agni-5 ICBM into a conventional delivery system carrying 7,500-kg hypersonic warheads.
  • Development focuses on two variants: an airburst model for surface targets and a deep-penetration version that can burrow up to 100 m underground before detonation.
  • Range is reduced to roughly 2,500 km to accommodate the heavy warheads while speeds between Mach 8 and Mach 20 classify the missiles as hypersonic.
  • The programme was fast-tracked after the US deployed GBU-57 bunker-buster bombs against Iran’s Fordow facility in late June.
  • Missile-based delivery is intended to enhance operational flexibility and self-reliance in striking hardened command centres and underground infrastructure in the region.