The potential for the US to enter the conflict between Israel and Iran has raised concerns about the destruction of Iran’s underground uranium enrichment facilities. In this scenario, it is likely that a select number of US bomber planes would be tasked with delivering the GBU-57 E/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), the world’s most powerful non-nuclear bomb.
The MOP, dropped from a B2 stealth bomber, has the capability to penetrate more than 60 meters of rock and soil before exploding. This precision-guided bomb could be used to target Iran’s underground enrichment facilities, particularly the Natanz site, which is believed to be buried 20 meters underground. However, the more heavily fortified Fordow facility, buried under 80 meters of rock and soil, presents a greater challenge.
The uncertainty of whether a successful bomb strike would completely destroy Iran’s nuclear stockpile at Fordow raises concerns similar to those faced by the US during the Cuban missile crisis. The US Air Force’s confidence in destroying 85% of targets in the past highlights the risks involved in such operations.
The MOP, an improved version of the MOAB, has never been used in active combat. Its rigid casing allows for penetration before explosion, making it more targeted than its predecessor. With an estimated 20 MOPs in the US arsenal, each bomb costing around $4 million, the B2 Spirit Stealth bomber is the only aircraft capable of delivering the MOP.
Despite the formidable capabilities of the MOP and the B2 bomber, challenges remain in a mission to destroy the Fordow facility. Loitering above the target to drop multiple bombs could make the B2 vulnerable to Iranian air defenses. Clearing a safe flight path for the bomber would also require neutralizing Iranian radar installations.
Overall, a potential bombing raid on the Fordow facility would be unprecedented and pose significant tactical difficulties. While the mission may be feasible, it would require careful planning and consideration of the risks involved.
