US Military Targets Iran's Fordow Nuclear Facility with Advanced Bombs
Deep beneath the earth's surface lies the Fordow nuclear facility, one of Iran's most fortified and crucial atomic sites. Following a series of airstrikes initiated by Israeli forces, the United States launched a significant military operation against this underground stronghold, utilizing advanced weaponry that only the US military possesses.
In a nighttime assault, the US Armed Forces targeted Fordow with the GBU-57 bomb, a precision-guided bunker buster weighing approximately 13.6 tons and measuring about six meters in length. This bomb, known for its immense destructive capability, can only be deployed from stealth bombers such as the B-2, which are exclusively operated by the US.
The operation was confirmed by US President Donald Trump, who stated that Fordow was struck with a 'full load of bombs.' During a press conference, General Staff Chief Dan Caine elaborated that a total of 14 GBU-57 bombs were dropped on two nuclear facilities, marking this as the largest operational deployment of B-2 bombers to date.
According to military assessments, the airstrikes inflicted severe damage on three Iranian nuclear sites. The GBU-57, developed by Boeing for the US military, is specifically designed to penetrate deep underground targets, including those shielded by rock, thick soil, or concrete. The bomb's design allows it to penetrate approximately 60 meters into the earth before detonating its payload of up to 2.3 tons of explosives.
The effectiveness of the GBU-57 lies in its hardened tip, which creates a pathway for the explosive charge to follow, ensuring maximum impact upon detonation. The military documentation describes the bomb's casing as crafted from a specialized high-performance steel alloy, enabling it to maintain structural integrity during the impact.
Strategically, the Fordow facility has been highlighted as a crucial target in efforts to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions. Reports indicate that this facility houses hundreds of centrifuges capable of enriching uranium to levels nearing weapon-grade purity. While Iranian officials assert that their intentions do not include developing nuclear weapons, skepticism remains, particularly given their production of highly enriched uranium.
The airstrikes have raised concerns about potential retaliatory actions from Iran, particularly against US military bases in the region, where approximately 40,000 American personnel are stationed. Experts have warned that if Iran were to retaliate, it could target US installations in neighboring countries, including Bahrain and Qatar.
In light of the military action, President Trump issued a stern warning to Iran, cautioning against any retaliatory strikes. He emphasized that any response from Iran would be met with overwhelming force, signaling a potential escalation in tensions.
The B-2 bombers used in the operation are primarily stationed at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, necessitating aerial refueling for missions over such extensive distances. The US Air Force has confirmed that these bombers have previously engaged in operations far from their home base, indicating the military's capability for long-range missions.
The Fordow facility, located near the city of Qom, has been identified by Israeli intelligence as a key site in Iran's nuclear program. With other significant targets already compromised, Fordow represents one of the last remaining options for disrupting Iran's nuclear development efforts.
As the international community observes the developments closely, the US military's actions may serve to reinitiate diplomatic discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program, with the aim of achieving significant concessions.