Israel-Iran conflict is intensifying by the day. On Tuesday, both nations exchanged fresh airstrikes. Just a day earlier, Israeli forces targeted an Iranian state TV studio in Tehran. Israel’s objective remains clear: to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. However, a recent statement from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has only deepened Israeli concerns.
IAEA Says Nuclear Facilities Largely Intact
The IAEA reported that despite Israeli airstrikes, Iran’s nuclear sites have suffered minimal damage. This raises fears that such attacks might only accelerate Iran’s nuclear ambitions rather than deter them.
“Israel’s attacks haven’t inflicted major setbacks,” the IAEA noted, suggesting they may instead provoke Iran to double down on its nuclear program.
Israel Eyes America’s Most Powerful Non-Nuclear Bomb
Frustrated by the lack of tangible impact, Israel is now reportedly seeking the GBU-57A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) from the United States—a weapon specifically designed to destroy heavily fortified underground facilities.
Why the GBU-57A/B Matters
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Bomb Name | GBU-57A/B MOP |
| Developed By | Boeing for the U.S. Air Force |
| Purpose | To penetrate and destroy deep underground bunkers |
| Deployment Aircraft | B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber |
| Total Weight | ~14,000 kg |
| Warhead Composition | AFX-757 + PBXN-114 |
| Penetration Capability | Up to 200 feet of concrete, 40m of hard rock |
Despite Israel’s request, the U.S. has not yet approved the transfer of this highly classified and powerful bomb. Experts warn that if Israel obtains and uses the MOP, it could cause catastrophic damage—including potential nuclear radiation leaks if the target is an active uranium facility.
The Story Behind the MOP Bomb
The Massive Ordnance Penetrator has a dramatic backstory. Work began in the early 2000s, led initially by Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin. But the project stalled due to technical and budget challenges.
After the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq exposed the inadequacy of existing bunker-busting munitions, interest was revived. The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) and the Air Force Research Laboratory launched fresh development efforts, and in 2007, the MOP underwent its first explosive tests at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico.
Integration and Deployment Timeline
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Early 2000s | Concept design initiated |
| 2003 | Renewed interest post-Iraq war |
| 2004 | Testing begins under DTRA |
| 2007 | First explosive trial conducted |
| 2008-2010 | MOP dropped from B-52 and B-2 bombers |
| 2011 | Officially handed over to U.S. Air Force |
What Makes the GBU-57A/B So Destructive?
This weapon is made from a high-performance steel alloy, designed to remain intact upon impact and detonate only after deep penetration. It uses GPS guidance for precise targeting.
Bomb Dimensions and Composition
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 20.5 feet |
| Diameter | 31.5 inches |
| Warhead Weight | ~2,500 kg |
| Penetration Estimates | 60m hard concrete, 40m rock, 8m ultra-dense concrete |
Radiation Risks and Strategic Calculations
Should Israel use the MOP on active nuclear sites, there’s a high risk of radiation leakage, which could have disastrous effects on civilians and the environment. This places Israel in a difficult position: either act decisively and risk international fallout, or remain restrained and allow Iran to advance its nuclear goals.
Read More: Fordow: Iran’s “Unbreakable” Nuclear Site Terrifies Israel
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