The GBU-57 MOP (Massive Ordnance Penetrator) is a non-nuclear munition which is in the arsenal of the US Air Force since 2011. It is a heavy, guided bomb developed by Boeing and it is used to attack and destroy enemy bunkers located deep under the earth; hence its name, ¨bunker buster¨ as it can hit targets as deep as 62 meters (203 feet). It is delivered from a B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. So far, as of 2025, twenty five bombs have been built and it has not been used in combat yet.
If the American government gets involved in the Iranian-Israeli War, the US Air Force could employ the GBU-57 MOP to strike the Iranian Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, which is at 85 meters below ground in the Zagros Mountains, Iran. It is a task which is not going to be easy as a B-2 bomber will have to approach to a dangerous distance, running the risk of being shot down by the Russian-built S-400 air defense system. With a weight of 30,000 pounds, it is much powerful than its predecessor, the 18,700-lb GBU-43 MOAB, which was used in Afghanistan in 2017.
Technical Characteristics
The GBU-57/B MOP is a precision guided bomb, which means it employs both GPS and inertial navigation system to reach its target. It is fitted with both planar and grid fins for stabilization in flight. Grid fins help the bomb keep its trajectory and allow mid-course adjustments. The bomb explosive payload is 2,423 kg (5,342-lb), which consists of plastic bonded explosive. This type of explosive is ideal for controlled detonation in cramped spaces. ¨GBU-57¨ stands for ¨guided bomb unit¨, a precision munition which can home in on its target, while ¨57¨ means the 57th design in the series of such bomb.
Specifications
Type: anti-bunker, precision guided bomb
Weight: 13,600 kg (30,000-lb)
Explosive Weight: 2,423 kg (5,342-lb)
Length: 6.2 m (20.5 feet)
Diameter: 0.8 m/or 80 cm (31.5 inches)
Navigation System: GPS and inertial.
Manufacturer: Boeing.
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| A B-2 Spirit bomber dropping a GBU-57 MOP bomb. |