US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has firmly sidestepped claims about India’s alleged Agni‑6 missile test, clarifying that the recent launch was in fact a MIRV‑capable Agni‑5.
His remarks at the Shangri‑La Dialogue stressed neutrality, avoiding labelling either India or Pakistan as threats, while highlighting both nations’ security concerns.
India’s missile programme became the centre of attention after speculation that it had secretly tested the Agni‑6, a missile rumoured to have a range of 10,000–12,000 kilometres. A Pakistani journalist mistakenly raised this point during questioning, prompting Hegseth to respond cautiously.
He acknowledged that both India and Pakistan, as nuclear‑armed states, naturally perceive threats from one another, but he refused to categorise either as a danger to the United States.
Instead, he praised both for their contributions to global peace, reiterating Washington’s stance of neutrality in South Asia’s missile race.
The confusion stemmed from India’s recent test of an advanced Agni‑5 variant equipped with Multiple Independently Targetable Re‑entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. Known as Mission Divyastra, this system allows a single missile to deliver multiple warheads to different targets, greatly enhancing deterrence.
The test was conducted from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha’s coast, and the Ministry of Defence confirmed its success. India has not officially disclosed any Agni‑6 programme details, despite speculation that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is technically ready for such a system.
Pakistan seized on the rumours, arguing that India’s pursuit of missiles exceeding 12,000 kilometres goes beyond regional security needs. Islamabad’s own missile programs, including the Shaheen‑III with a range of 2,750 kilometres and the Ababeel MIRV system with a range of 2,200 kilometres, remain focused on countering India.
US intelligence assessments earlier suggested Pakistan’s missile ambitions could one day threaten the American homeland, but Hegseth downplayed these warnings, prioritising diplomatic ties and Pakistan’s role in mediating conflicts in the Gulf.
India’s broader defence modernisation adds context to this episode. The Agni‑V remains the backbone of its nuclear deterrent, capable of striking targets beyond 5,000 kilometres, while submarine‑launched K‑series missiles strengthen its second‑strike capability.
Indigenous projects such as Project Kusha for long‑range air defence, the Akash and QRSAM systems, and advances in hypersonic propulsion through the HSTDV program highlight India’s drive for self‑reliance.
Complementary technologies like directed energy weapons, AI‑enabled battle management systems, and indigenous AIP modules for submarines further reinforce its layered defence shield.
The US position reflects a balancing act. While intelligence reports continue to flag Pakistan’s missile developments as potential long‑term threats, Washington is reluctant to jeopardise its strategic partnership with Islamabad.
At the same time, it avoids antagonising New Delhi, whose growing arsenal—including MIRV‑capable missiles, hypersonic demonstrators, and anti‑satellite capabilities—places it among the world’s leading military powers.
By refusing to label either side a threat, the US underscores its intent to remain neutral, even as South Asia’s missile race intensifies.
Curated By IDN
