- DRDO is accelerating development of advanced bunker busters following the U.S. strike on Iran using GBU-57.
- A modified Agni-5 missile will serve as the platform, carrying massive bunker-busting payloads.
- These missiles will be capable of carrying up to 7,500 kg of conventional warheads.
- They will penetrate 80–100 meters underground before detonation.
- Expected range will be 2,000–2,500 km (shorter than original Agni-5’s 5,000+ km).
- Far more cost-effective than U.S. stealth bombers, yet potentially more powerful in penetration.
- Hypersonic speed: between Mach 8 to Mach 20, for maximum kinetic energy-based impact.
Context: U.S. Use of MOPs in Iran Conflict
In a recent strike against Iranian IRGC underground installations, the United States deployed dozens of GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOPs), signaling deeper involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict. This sparked interest in similar missile capabilities in India.
What is MOP and Its Usage?
The Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) is a 13,600 kg U.S.-developed bomb designed to penetrate deep underground before detonation. It is especially useful for targeting fortified bunkers or nuclear facilities that regular bombs can’t reach.
MOPs are typically dropped from B-2 stealth bombers and are key strategic weapons in modern underground warfare.
What is DRDO Developing and Why Does It Matters?
DRDO is working on a hypersonic version of the Agni-5 missile that can carry a 7,500 kg conventional warhead. This missile, with a range of 2,000–2,500 km, is being developed specifically for underground penetration and airburst capabilities.
Benefits include:
- Destroying nuclear bunkers and command centers in Pakistan and China.
- Precision targeting in heavily fortified terrain.
- Reducing reliance on costly aircraft and foreign systems.
- Enhanced deterrence with indigenous technology.
How Will It Outmatch the U.S. GBU-57?
- Agni-5 variant: Hypersonic, traveling at Mach 8–20, generating intense kinetic energy to drill into earth.
- GBU-57: Dropped subsonically from aircraft, relying on gravity and sheer mass.
- Cost Comparison: Agni-based missile is significantly cheaper than using a $2.1B B-2 bomber.
- Flexibility: India’s system is mobile and missile-based, not dependent on expensive stealth bombers or air dominance.
Place Without Rivalries – The Spiritual Perspective
While nations race toward destructive technologies, true peace doesn’t lie in weapons but in spiritual realization. The eternal realm, Satlok, offers lasting peace beyond conflict. As mentioned in Bhagavad Gita 18:62:
“O Arjuna, surrender completely to that Supreme God (SatPurush). By His grace, you will attain eternal peace and reach Satlok.”
To reach Satlok, one must surrender to a Tatvdarshi Saint, take Naam Diksha (initiation), and perform true worship throughout life.
FAQs about India’s DRDO Building Bunker-Buster Missiles More Powerful Than U.S.
1. What is the B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber?
A. It is a U.S. long-range strategic bomber designed to carry 16× GBU-57 MOPs or 40,000 lbs of ordnance. It’s radar-evading, making it nearly invisible.
2. What is the cost of one B-2 Bomber?
A. Around $2.1 billion USD per unit.
3. Why is the B-2 Bomber so expensive?
A. Due to its stealth technology, advanced radar-absorbing materials, and low observability.
4. What is Russia’s “Father of All Bombs” (FOAB)?
A. A powerful thermobaric bomb with a 44-ton TNT equivalent blast. It creates shockwaves and heat but lacks deep earth penetration capability.
5. Which country owns the most bunker busters?
A. The U.S. leads with 50–100 units of GBU-57 and over 500 GBU-28 bunker busters.
