India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has confirmed its complete readiness to develop the advanced Agni-VI missile, pending official government clearance. Speaking at the ANI National Security Summit 2.0, DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat stated that fundamental groundwork and technological research for the Agni-VI missile are already mature. He emphasized, “We are ready whenever the government gives us the go-ahead,” highlighting that the project’s timeline now rests entirely on a formal policy decision. The proposed Agni-VI missile is poised to be a significant technological upgrade, substantially boosting India’s long-range strategic strike capabilities.

Defence experts anticipate this four-stage, solid-fueled Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) will achieve an impressive operational range between 10,000 and 12,000 kilometres. Crucially, reports suggest it will incorporate Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, enabling a single missile to deliver up to 10 independent warheads to distinct targets. Expected features also include Maneuverable Re-entry Vehicles (MaRV), decoys, and radar-absorbent coatings to successfully evade sophisticated modern missile defence shields. DRDO’s confidence stems from extensive expertise gained during the creation of earlier Agni variants. Essential components like rocket propulsion systems, advanced guidance, re-entry vehicle dynamics, and heat-resistant composite materials are already perfected.

Leveraging these foundational technologies allows the organisation to seamlessly evolve its existing platforms, minimizing future development time and associated financial and operational risks. Dr. Kamat also highlighted significant progress on the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) hypersonic glide program, with initial trials imminent, and the Pralay ballistic missile nearing induction, underscoring India’s comprehensive advancements in multi-layered conventional and strategic defence capabilities.