The United States is reportedly considering the potential use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB) bomb in any renewed military strikes against Iran, according to a recent report. While military planners have reportedly developed contingency plans that include deploying the large conventional bomb against Iranian energy and nuclear infrastructure, there is no indication that President Donald Trump has authorized such an operation.

The MOAB, commonly known as the "Mother of All Bombs," is a sizable guided conventional bomb weighing approximately 9,800 kilograms and carrying 8,500 kilograms of explosives. It measures about nine meters in length and is delivered from a C-130 aircraft using satellite and inertial guidance systems. Upon release, a specially designed cradle separates from the bomb to enable its deployment.

The potential targets discussed include facilities such as Pickaxe Mountain, a deeply buried complex near Natanz which is linked to Iran's nuclear program. However, sources familiar with the discussions have expressed doubt about the MOAB's effectiveness against underground sites protected by thick layers of rock. The MOAB detonates above ground and is intended to create a powerful blast over a broad area. Although it can damage tunnels and cave systems, it lacks the capability to penetrate deeply buried structures before exploding. This raises questions about its suitability for targeting Iranian nuclear installations concealed beneath granite formations.

It is important to distinguish the MOAB from other large conventional bombs such as the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), which is designed specifically as a bunker-buster. The MOP weighs roughly 13,600 kilograms and uses precision guidance to penetrate hardened underground facilities before detonation. Unlike the MOAB, which relies on blast effects dispersed above ground, the MOP is intended to deliver its explosive payload inside fortified subterranean targets.

Concerns have also been noted regarding the risk of civilian casualties if the MOAB were deployed near populated areas. The discussions highlight the challenge of balancing the desire to neutralize deeply buried targets with the weapon's operational limitations and potential collateral damage.

At this stage, these plans remain speculative, with no confirmed orders for the use of the MOAB in any campaign against Iran. US officials have not publicly addressed the reports, and independent verification of the details remains limited.