United States Uses 'Bunker Buster Bomb' Against Iranian Nuclear Facilities

For the first time in its history, the United States used GBU-57A/B bombs, known as 'Bunker Buster Bombs' (MOP), in its strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. This bomb, weighing 30,000 pounds and containing 6,000 pounds of explosives, is one of the most powerful non-nuclear weapons in the world.

The GBU-57A/B was specifically designed to destroy fortified underground facilities, capable of penetrating 200 feet (61 meters) below ground before detonating, according to a fact sheet from the U.S. Air Force. It is also equipped with a special fuse that enables it to destroy well-protected targets with high precision.

Analysts suggest that this bomb is 'the only weapon capable of destroying deeply buried Iranian nuclear facilities, such as the Fordo facility.' It measures 6.6 meters in length, enhancing its penetration capabilities.

This bomb can only be launched from B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, which have the ability to remain invisible and have a range of up to 7,000 miles (11,000 km) without refueling, and 11,500 miles (18,500 km) with aerial refueling. This gives them the capability to reach any place in the world within hours.

These aircraft were dispatched from the United States, flying over the Pacific Ocean, at a time when the region is witnessing escalating tensions due to the war between Israel and Iran.

The design of the GBU-57A/B began in the early 21st century and was manufactured by Boeing. Although it has never been used in combat, it was tested at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.

This bomb surpasses the power of the MOAB (Mother of All Bombs), weighing 9,800 kg and used in Afghanistan in 2017. Multiple bombs of this type can be dropped successively to deepen the penetration.

In 2015, the U.S. Air Force confirmed that the MOP 'is designed to accomplish difficult missions of reaching well-protected weapons of mass destruction facilities and destroying them'.