Fact Check: Trump's Strikes on Iran Mark First Combat Use of Bunker-Buster Bomb
What We Know
On June 22, 2025, the United States conducted airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. President Donald Trump confirmed that the strikes were "successful" and involved the use of GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOPs), commonly referred to as "bunker buster" bombs. According to reports, these bombs were specifically designed to penetrate deep underground facilities, such as the Fordow site, which is heavily fortified and located beneath significant layers of earth and concrete (BBC, NPR).
The Pentagon confirmed that a total of 14 MOPs were dropped during the operation, which involved seven B-2 stealth bombers and other military aircraft (BBC). The GBU-57 MOP is noted for its capability to penetrate approximately 60 feet of concrete or 200 feet of earth before detonating, making it suitable for targeting fortified structures like those used in Iran's nuclear program (NPR, USA TODAY).
Analysis
The claim that Trump's strikes on Iran mark the first combat use of bunker-buster bombs is supported by multiple credible sources. The GBU-57 MOP, which was used in these strikes, had never been deployed in combat prior to this operation, according to military analysts (NPR, Fox News). The Pentagon's confirmation of the use of MOPs and the strategic planning that went into the operation further solidifies the accuracy of this claim.
While some sources may exhibit a degree of bias—such as those that may favor military action or those that oppose it—the primary facts regarding the use of the GBU-57 MOP are consistent across reports from reputable outlets like the BBC and NPR. The analysis of the bomb's capabilities and its intended use against Iran's fortified nuclear sites is corroborated by military experts (NPR, USA TODAY).
Conclusion
Verdict: True. The claim that Trump's strikes on Iran mark the first combat use of bunker-buster bombs is accurate. The GBU-57 MOP was indeed used for the first time in combat during these airstrikes, targeting Iran's nuclear facilities, which aligns with the operational capabilities and intended use of this specific type of bomb.
