Aircraft
Bunker Bombs Requested, Stockpiled for Potential Iran Strike
Test personnel with the Defense Threat Reduction Agency prepare to offload the Massive Ordnance Penetrator for a static test at White Sands Missile Range, N.M. (Photo: DTRA)
Test personnel with the Defense Threat Reduction Agency prepare to offload the Massive Ordnance Penetrator for a static test at White Sands Missile Range, N.M. (Photo: DTRA)

With concern mounting over Iran’s nuclear program, the U.S. and allies in the region are adding bunker-busting bombs designed to penetrate hardened targets from the air. In a television interview on December 19, U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta noticeably toughened his previous stance. Iran could build a nuclear weapon within a year, he said, and if they do, “We will take whatever steps necessary to stop it.”