DRDO Signals Readiness for Agni VI
In a major development for Bharat’s long-range defence arsenal, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman Samir V Kamat stated that the organisation is fully prepared to move ahead with the Agni VI Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) programme, but awaits government approval.
He made the remarks during ANI’s National Security Summit 2.0.
Expected Key Features of Agni VI
Although the Agni VI missile is not yet operational, its estimated core characteristics are as follows:
- A next-generation missile with an estimated range of 10,000–12,000 km
- Designed to carry 10–12 Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRV) nuclear warheads
- Payload capacity of approximately 3 tonnes (3,000 kg)
- Four-stage rocket propulsion
- Capability for deployment from road, rail, and submarine platforms
Hence, Agni VI is projected to be the most advanced missile in the Agni series.
Estimated Range and Global Reach
As mentioned, the estimated range of Agni VI is 10,000–12,000 km, enabling coverage across Europe, Africa, Asia, Alaska, northern Canada, and parts of Oceania.
Strategic Implications for Bharat
Agni VI is expected to significantly strengthen Bharat’s nuclear deterrence posture by enhancing its second-strike capability.
It would also position Bharat among a select group of nations possessing missiles with a range exceeding 10,000 km, capable of long-range strategic reach.
Currently, countries such as the United States, Russia, China, France, and North Korea have demonstrated advanced ICBM capabilities.
Hypersonic Missile Development Underway
Speaking at the summit, Kamat also revealed that DRDO is actively working on hypersonic glide and cruise missile systems.
The Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) hypersonic glide missile is expected to be tested first, with trials likely to begin in the near future.
