Decoding the GBU-57/B: America’s Ultimate Weapon Against Iran’s Fordow Nuclear Site

The Israel-Iran conflict is entering a critical phase, with the U.S. expected to define its strategy soon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s commitment to attacking Iran’s Fordow nuclear site, regardless of U.S. support, highlights the strategic importance of this facility. Experts suggest that Netanyahu is relying on the GBU-57/B, a U.S.-made bunker-buster bomb, to neutralize the deeply buried Iranian nuclear site. This powerful, non-nuclear weapon can reportedly penetrate up to 200 feet underground. The bomb’s design facilitates this deep penetration, with its high sectional density and specialized front shape. Iran’s Fordow facility, housing its most advanced nuclear enrichment operations, lies beneath a mountain, shielded by 260-300 feet of rock and concrete. The GBU-57/B is the only conventional weapon capable of potentially destroying this facility, emphasizing its strategic importance. This bomb can only be deployed by the U.S. Air Force using the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, which can evade Iran’s air defenses. The GBU-57/B is GPS-guided and carries a powerful warhead capable of disrupting critical infrastructure.