In a massive leap for India’s defense capabilities, DRDO is developing a specialized conventional version of the Agni-5 missile, dubbed the ‘Sledgehammer.’ Designed to be the world’s largest conventional payload-carrying ballistic missile, it aims to redefine sub-surface warfare in Asia. With a massive 7,500 to 8,000 kg warhead, it is built specifically as a ‘Bunker Buster’ to decimate enemy command centers and nuclear silos hidden deep underground.

Unlike the American GBU-57, which requires a B-2 stealth bomber for deployment, India’s Sledgehammer can be launched from a mobile Transporter-Erector-Launcher (TEL). This canisterized system makes it easy to hide and rapid to deploy. In its terminal phase, the missile reaches speeds between Mach 8 and Mach 20, providing enough kinetic energy to penetrate 80 to 100 meters of reinforced concrete before exploding.

Defense analysts suggest that this gives India a powerful non-nuclear option to neutralize strategic threats deep inside China or Pakistan without risking nuclear escalation. DRDO is currently working on two variants: an airburst for surface targets and a deep penetrator for underground facilities. This project marks a significant milestone in India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ journey, ensuring no enemy hideout remains invincible.