U.S. Military Deploys Advanced Bombs in Iran's Nuclear Targeting

The U.S. military has conducted a significant operation targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, utilizing advanced weaponry to penetrate deep underground installations. This operation, referred to as 'Midnight Hammer,' focused primarily on the Fordo nuclear site, known for its fortified location beneath the earth.

In a meticulously planned assault that reportedly spanned several months, the U.S. deployed dozens of fighter jets, refueling aircraft, and stealth bombers equipped with massive bunker-busting bombs and cruise missiles launched from submarines. The centerpiece of this operation was the GBU-57 bomb, specifically engineered to penetrate thick layers of rock and concrete.

The GBU-57, a precision-guided munition measuring approximately six meters in length and weighing 13.6 tons, is designed to be dropped exclusively by B-2 stealth bombers, which the U.S. military operates. During this mission, a total of 14 GBU-57 bombs were released, with the majority targeting the Fordo facility, alongside other underground sites in Natanz that had previously been engaged by Israeli forces.

U.S. military officials reported that the bombing campaign concluded within 25 minutes, marking the first combat use of this particular bomb in the U.S. military's history. Prior to this operation, the GBU-57 had only been tested in controlled environments. According to military sources, the first B-2 bomber dropped two bombs on the initial target at Fordo, resulting in several impact points visible in satellite images, suggesting the bombs penetrated deep into the ground before detonating.

The innovative design of the GBU-57 allows it to bore approximately 60 meters into the earth, enabling the explosive charge to be detonated underground. Reports indicate that the Fordo facility is situated between 80 to 110 meters below the surface, necessitating multiple bomb strikes at the same location to ensure the destruction of the highly secured site.

Military experts have raised concerns regarding the risks associated with deploying such advanced munitions. It is uncertain whether the GBU-57 can fully eliminate all aspects of the facility, and there is a potential for retaliatory actions from Iran against U.S. military bases in the region. The U.S. maintains a significant military presence, with around 40,000 personnel stationed at various bases in proximity to Iran.

In the aftermath of the strikes, U.S. officials issued stern warnings to Iran, emphasizing that any retaliatory measures would be met with even greater force. The military's strategic rationale is that by targeting critical nuclear infrastructure, the U.S. hopes to bring Iran back to the negotiating table regarding its nuclear program.

The Fordo facility, which reportedly houses numerous centrifuges capable of enriching uranium to levels close to weapons-grade purity, has been a focal point of international concern. The Iranian government has publicly stated that it does not seek nuclear weapons; however, skepticism persists, particularly given its production of highly enriched uranium.

As the situation develops, the U.S. will likely continue to monitor Iran's nuclear capabilities closely, balancing military action with diplomatic efforts to prevent nuclear proliferation in the region.