New Bomb Could Succeed Weapon Used to Strike Iranian Nuclear Facilities
Defense engineering firm ARA and Boeing have been selected by the US Air Force to prototype a new, air-dropped bunker buster bomb. This weapon could potentially replace the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), which was reportedly used to strike Iranian nuclear facilities in June. The announcement was recently made by the companies.
Two-Year Contract for Design and Tail Kit
Under the two-year contract awarded by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), ARA will design the bomb, and Boeing will craft the weapon’s tail kit, according to a Sept. 5 press release from ARA. Boeing will also assist with integration efforts. The contract value remains undisclosed.
Expertise and Innovation
“We are honored to continue supporting AFLCMC with innovative solutions that advance their mission. The ARA-Boeing Team has unique expertise, and this award emphasizes the trust that [the AFLCMC Armament Directorate] places in ARA’s proven capabilities and long-standing commitment to excellence,” said ARA CEO Rob Sues in the company’s release.
Next Generation Penetrator
The new bunker buster, known as the Next Generation Penetrator, is planned as the successor to the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), manufactured by Boeing. The ARA-led team will produce both subscale and full-scale prototypes, with the goal of „evaluat[ing] capabilities against hard and deeply buried targets that pose critical challenges to U.S. national security.”
Alleged Use of MOP in Operation Midnight Hammer
The MOP was reportedly used in combat for the first time to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities on June 21, in an operation dubbed „Midnight Hammer.” Targets included Fordo and Natanz, with surface targets hit in Isfahan. While US officials claimed the sites were „obliterated,” leaked government assessments suggest that Fordo suffered severe damage, but Isfahan and Natanz may recover relatively quickly.
Requirements and Integration
Air Force industry surveys have expressed a desire for a warhead weighing no more than 22,000 lbs. capable of blast, frag, and penetration effects, with a goal of delivering 10 subscale and three to five full-scale warheads within 18 to 24 months of contract award. The MOP can currently only be carried by the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and is expected to be integrated with the forthcoming B-21 Raider. The aircraft capable of carrying the Next Generation Penetrator remains unclear.
Budget and Timeline
The Air Force is requesting approximately $73.7 million for the next-gen bunker buster in fiscal 2026 and plans to conclude prototype demonstration by the end of FY27, according to budget documents.
