The United States has carried out a major military operation against Iran's nuclear infrastructure, dropping six GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) bombs on the deeply fortified Fordow nuclear facility. According to a Reuters report citing anonymous US officials, the strikes were executed using B-2 Spirit stealth bombers, each capable of carrying two of the 30,000-pound (15-ton) bunker-busting munitions. President Donald Trump publicly confirmed the operation on Truth Social, calling it a decisive blow to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
The GBU-57 MOPs are among the most powerful non-nuclear weapons in the US arsenal. Designed to destroy deeply buried and heavily protected facilities, these bombs can penetrate up to 200 feet of earth or 60 feet of reinforced concrete before detonating. Their use underscores the seriousness of the US response and the extent to which it is willing to go to dismantle Iran’s nuclear capability.
The Fordow facility, which lies beneath a mountain near the holy city of Qom, has long been considered one of the most secretive and fortified parts of Iran’s nuclear program. US officials believe it played a central role in uranium enrichment and nuclear weapons development. The site’s remote location and reinforced structure made it difficult to target — until now.
In addition to the Fordow strike, around 30 Tomahawk cruise missiles were launched from US Navy submarines positioned in the region. These missiles targeted key nuclear-related sites in Natanz and Isfahan — both major hubs in Iran's uranium enrichment operations. Natanz, in particular, has been at the center of international scrutiny for years and was previously targeted in cyber operations like the Stuxnet attack. Isfahan, on the other hand, is home to a large uranium conversion facility and research installations.
This joint air and sea-based offensive represents one of the most significant direct US military actions against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure in recent history. Military analysts suggest the scale and precision of the operation signal a shift in Washington's posture — from deterrence and sanctions to direct intervention.
The B-2 Spirit, often described as one of the most advanced bombers in the world, played a crucial role in the strike. It is designed for stealth and long-range missions, capable of slipping through advanced air defense systems undetected. With its large internal bays, the B-2 can carry up to two MOPs per mission. Though some reports suggest it can be configured for additional payload, the aircraft is generally optimized for deep-strike missions with a specific set of high-value targets.
Experts say this operation, due to the use of the GBU-57s and simultaneous cruise missile launches, demonstrates not only technological superiority but also strategic intent — sending a clear message to Iran and the broader international community that the US is willing to take unilateral, forceful action if diplomatic efforts fail.
The geopolitical ramifications of the attack are still unfolding, but early signs point to a sharp escalation in regional tensions, with Israel placing its military on high alert and Tehran promising a “severe and calculated” response.
