India appears to be taking initial steps toward a new stage in the development of its missile defense architecture, with the early development of interceptors specifically designed to counter hypersonic missile threats, multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), and cruise missiles. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is already working on preliminary concepts for the development of two new interceptors, designated “AD-AH” and “AD-AM,” which would form part of the future Phase III of the country’s Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) program.
According to available reports, these developments represent a qualitative leap compared to the current capabilities of India’s missile shield, which has so far focused primarily on intercepting short- and medium-range ballistic missiles using systems such as the Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV), as well as the AAD and PDV Mk-II anti-ballistic and anti-satellite interceptors corresponding to previous phases of the program.
AD-AH and AD-AM interceptors: the core of Phase III of the BMD
Based on published information, the AD-AH (Advanced Defense – Anti-Hypersonic) and AD-AM (Advanced Defense – Anti-Missile) interceptors are conceived as the cornerstone of the next phase of India’s BMD program, aimed at neutralizing far more complex and high-speed threats. Specifically, the goal is to counter hypersonic missiles capable of maneuvering during their flight phase, as well as systems equipped with multiple independently targetable reentry vehicles (MIRVs), which represent one of the greatest challenges for conventional missile defenses.
In this regard, Phase III of the BMD program aims to significantly expand the interception envelope, both in altitude and speed, incorporating more advanced sensors, new target discrimination algorithms, and guidance systems capable of operating in highly saturated and complex environments.
An increasingly demanding regional context
It is important to note that the development of these capabilities occurs within a rapidly evolving regional strategic environment, marked not only by China’s advances in hypersonic missiles but also by the sustained modernization of ballistic arsenals across Asia.
For India in particular, the need for such a defense against emerging threats has become a central element of its strategic planning, especially regarding the protection of urban centers, critical military installations, and command and control nodes.
While technical details on the new interceptors remain limited and the program is reportedly in an early phase of design and conceptual validation, analysts agree that the DRDO’s approach aims to develop indigenous solutions, reducing reliance on foreign systems and strengthening the country’s defense industrial and technological base.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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