Military officials in the United States have included the country's most powerful non-nuclear explosive in potential strategies prepared for President Donald Trump, as the administration considers targeting Iran.
CNN reported that these proposed attacks would focus on nuclear locations and energy facilities if Trump gives the order for another military campaign. Sources noted these are contingency plans rather than a greenlit bombing mission.
Officially designated as the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast bomb, this weapon holds about 8,500 kilograms of explosives. It triggers an explosion above the ground that unleashes a massive blast over the nearby region.
Yet, this immense destructive power might not make the weapon effective against heavily fortified Iranian nuclear structures. The MOAB lacks the bunker-buster capability required to bore through reinforced concrete and thick rock prior to detonation.
American sources close to the talks have raised doubts about whether the device can penetrate facilities located under Pickaxe Mountain or achieve the strategic goals sought by Trump. Operating the weapon close to inhabited zones also presents major dangers for civilians.
Military analyst Elijah Magnier stated that the munition could destroy surface targets while failing to wipe out deeply buried installations or compel Tehran into making concessions.
The United States previously deployed the MOAB in 2017 against an Islamic State tunnel complex in Afghanistan, which remains its sole documented combat use.
In response, Iranian representatives warned that they would retaliate against regional data centers, communications networks, and other digital infrastructure if US strikes start again.
