logo
24,696 KMPH Speed, 2,500KM Range: India's Bunker Buster To Smash Targets 100m Underground

24,696 KMPH Speed, 2,500KM Range: India's Bunker Buster To Smash Targets 100m Underground

News182 days ago
Last Updated:
The bunker buster variant of Agni-5 is being modified to penetrate 80–100m underground, carrying a heavier warhead and traveling at hypersonic speeds of 8 to 24 Mach
India is developing an advanced indigenous bunker buster missile system, taking cues from a recent US military operation that significantly impacted Iran's nuclear infrastructure. Inspired by the successful use of a 14,000 kg bunker buster bomb by a US B-2 Spirit stealth bomber during the 12-day Israel-Iran conflict, India aims to enhance its strategic capabilities to counter potential threats from Pakistan, which has often issued nuclear attack warnings.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has initiated a project to develop a state-of-the-art bunker buster system, which is expected to be one of the most potent and effective in the world. Although no specific timeline has been provided, the project has already commenced, raising concerns for neighbouring China and Pakistan. Both countries, rich in nuclear weapons, share borders with India, Pakistan to the west and China to the east and north.
India demonstrated its military prowess during Operation Sindoor, attacking 11 Pakistani airbases with Su-30MKI fighter jets, including the strategically vital Noor Khan airbase near Pakistan's nuclear base at Kirana Hills. This operation highlighted India's capability but also underscored the need for a bunker buster system.
DRDO's Bunker Buster Project
DRDO is developing a missile-based bunker buster solution by modifying the Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile, instead of building a bomb like the one used by the US. According to reports, the Agni-5, which has a range of over 5,500 kilometres, will see its range reduced under this plan. However, its conventional warhead capacity will be significantly enhanced to carry sufficient ordnance capable of destroying deeply buried targets.
The bunker buster variant of the Agni-5 missile is being adapted to penetrate 80 to 100 meters underground, with a significantly enhanced conventional warhead payload capacity. This missile will travel at hypersonic speeds of 8 to 24 Mach, ensuring it can effectively destroy deeply buried military bases or nuclear weapons depots.
The bunker buster version of the Agni-5 missile will strike enemy targets at speeds ranging from 9,878 to 24,696 kilometres per hour. It is capable of carrying a heavy payload of 7,500 to 8,000 kilograms. Due to this increased payload capacity, its range will be reduced to around 2,500 kilometres—enough to reach and destroy fortified underground targets.
Why A Missile-Based Bunker Buster, Not A Bomb?
US dropped GBU-57 bunker buster bombs on Iran's nuclear sites using the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. The bomb is reported to weigh around 1,400 kg. While the US opted for bombs in its bunker buster strategy, India is developing bunker buster missiles instead.
The primary reason is cost. A single B-2 Spirit stealth bomber costs $2 billion (approximately Rs 17,086 crore). In addition, India does not currently possess the technology to manufacture stealth jets. The cost of one GBU-57 bunker buster bomb is $20 million (about Rs 170 crore).
Together, the high cost of the bomber and the bomb, along with the lack of stealth jet production capability, make this approach unviable for India. In contrast, India has significant expertise in missile technology, making the development of bunker buster missiles a more practical and cost-effective option.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

'Force For Global Good': PM Modi Thanks Brazil President Lula For Hosting BRICS Summit
'Force For Global Good': PM Modi Thanks Brazil President Lula For Hosting BRICS Summit

News18

time30 minutes ago

  • News18

'Force For Global Good': PM Modi Thanks Brazil President Lula For Hosting BRICS Summit

Last Updated: PM Modi arrived in Brazil to attend the 17th BRICS Leaders Summit. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday received a warm welcome from Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as he arrived at the Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro to attend the 17th BRICS Leaders Summit. Both the leaders shook hands and shared a warm hug with enthusiasm at the venue. The Prime Minister further thanked President Lula for hosting the BRICS Summit. "Grateful to President Lula for hosting this year's BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro. BRICS remains a powerful force for economic cooperation and global good," he said in a post on X. Grateful to President Lula for hosting this year's BRICS Summit in Rio de remains a powerful force for economic cooperation and global good. @LulaOficial — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 6, 2025 PM Modi To Attend BRICS Summit PM Modi arrived in Brazil to attend the 17th BRICS Leaders Summit. During the Summit, Prime Minister Modi will exchange views on key global issues, including reform of global governance, peace and security, strengthening multilateralism, responsible use of artificial intelligence, climate action, global health, and economic and financial matters. PM Modi In Brazil PM Modi had arrived in Brazil earlier in the day on the fourth leg of his five-nation visit, after wrapping up a historic trip to Argentina on Saturday. This is Prime Minister's fourth visit to Brazil and he is scheduled to undertake a State Visit to Brasilia following the two-day Summit. PM Modi received a warm and vibrant welcome from the Indian community upon his arrival in Rio de Janeiro. He also witnessed a musical performance of traditional prayer songs. Members of the Indian community held a traditional dance performance on the theme of 'Operation Sindoor' while welcoming the Indian leader. Sharing his sentiments on the social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi said he was amazed by the Indian diaspora's enduring connection to Indian culture. "Members of Brazil's Indian community gave a very vibrant welcome in Rio de Janeiro. It's amazing how they remain connected with Indian culture and are also very passionate about India's development! Here are some glimpses from the welcome," PM Modi wrote on X. After landing in Brazil, PM shared a post on X, he said, "Landed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where I will take part in the BRICS Summit and later go to their capital, Brasilia, for a state visit on the invitation of President Lula. Hoping for a productive round of meetings and interactions during this visit." (With inputs from agencies) First Published: July 06, 2025, 20:20 IST

PM Modi arrives at Brics summit: Hugs and thanks Brazil President, welcomed by traditional dance on 'Operation Sindoor' theme
PM Modi arrives at Brics summit: Hugs and thanks Brazil President, welcomed by traditional dance on 'Operation Sindoor' theme

Time of India

time30 minutes ago

  • Time of India

PM Modi arrives at Brics summit: Hugs and thanks Brazil President, welcomed by traditional dance on 'Operation Sindoor' theme

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday to attend the 17th BRICS Summit, where he was warmly received by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The two leaders greeted each other with a handshake and a hug as the summit began at the Museum of Modern Art. PM Modi took to social media platform X, expressing gratitude towards the host nation "Grateful to President Lula for hosting this year's BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro. BRICS remains a powerful force for economic cooperation and global good." — narendramodi (@narendramodi) Upon landing, PM Modi wrote, "Landed in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where I will take part in the BRICS Summit and later go to their capital, Brasilia, for a state visit on the invitation of President Lula. Hoping for a productive round of meetings and interactions during this visit." PM Modi was greeted with enthusiasm by members of the Indian diaspora in Brazil, who performed traditional music and dance, including a cultural piece themed on ' Operation Sindoor '. The operation, a military response to evolving threats targeting civilians and security forces, was launched after the terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam earlier this year. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like They Were So Beautiful Before; Now Look At Them; Number 10 Will Shock You Reportingly Undo Sharing glimpses of the welcome ceremony, PM Modi posted, "Members of Brazil's Indian community gave a very vibrant welcome in Rio de Janeiro. It's amazing how they remain connected with Indian culture and are also very passionate about India's development!" The BRICS Leaders' Summit, being held on 6–7 July, will see discussions on a range of global issues including peace and security, multilateral cooperation, climate action, artificial intelligence, health, and financial systems. Brazil is the fourth stop in PM Modi's five-nation tour.

PM Modi Gets Grand Welcome In Brazil With Op Sindoor-Themed Dance Performance
PM Modi Gets Grand Welcome In Brazil With Op Sindoor-Themed Dance Performance

News18

time44 minutes ago

  • News18

PM Modi Gets Grand Welcome In Brazil With Op Sindoor-Themed Dance Performance

Last Updated: PM Modi is in Brazil for a four-day visit during which he will participate in the 17th BRICS Summit and undertake a State Visit Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a grand welcome from the Indian diaspora upon his arrival in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday. The event was marked by a vibrant cultural performance themed around 'Operation Sindoor', with the powerful slogan ' Ye Desh Nahi Mitne Dunga" echoing through the venue. Visuals shared by news agency ANI show PM Modi watching the dance performance with keen interest as members of the Indian community performed traditional dances and folk songs to greet the Indian leader. A Brazilian music group also took part, performing devotional music that highlighted India's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. PM Modi is in Brazil for a four-day visit during which he will participate in the 17th BRICS Summit and undertake a State Visit. The BRICS Leaders' Summit, held on July 6 and 7, will see him discuss key global issues such as peace and security, strengthening multilateralism, the responsible use of artificial intelligence, climate action, global health, and economic and financial matters. In addition to the summit, PM Modi is expected to hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines, including discussions with Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The two leaders will focus on expanding the Strategic Partnership between India and Brazil in sectors such as trade, defence, energy, space, technology, agriculture, health, and people-to-people ties. PM Modi arrived in Brazil after concluding his visit to Argentina, where he met with Argentine President Javier Milei. Following Brazil, he will travel to Namibia on July 9, where he will address the country's parliament. (With inputs from agencies) Location : Brazil First Published:

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store