Bunker Buster Bombs Overview

Overview

This lecture covers various bunker buster bombs, focusing on their penetration capabilities, construction, deployment processes, and the differences between the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) and the MOAB ("Mother of All Bombs").

Major Bunker Buster Bombs

• The GBU-57 MOP is carried only by the B2 Spirit stealth bomber due to its size and weight.
• The GBU-57 lacks thrusters but uses lattice fins and GPS for precision guidance.
• The BLU-109 is a 2,000 lb bomb capable of penetrating about 5 ft of reinforced concrete.
• The GBU-28 uses laser guidance and can penetrate up to 20 ft of concrete.
• The GBU-57 MOP can penetrate over 200 ft (60 m) underground, far surpassing other bombs.

GBU-57 MOP Details

• Measures 20.5 ft long, 31.5 inches wide, and weighs 30,000 lb (14,000 kg).
• Main body is over 80% of total weight, made from hardened ferrocobalt alloy for impact resistance.
• Contains a 5,000 lb (2,267 kg) explosive warhead, nose fuse, and tail fuse for delayed detonation.
• Utilizes an inertial guidance kit and military GPS for navigation.
• Fins and internal guidance adjust trajectory for accurate targeting.

Smaller Bunker Busters (e.g., GBU-28)

• Equipped with a laser sensor and adjustable fins for guidance.
• Warhead weighs about 650 lb, filled with Tritonal explosive (80% TNT, 20% aluminum).
• Narrow cross-section allows deep penetration into buildings and bunkers.

Cost Comparison

• GBU-57: development $400–500 million, unit cost ~$3.5 million.
• GBU-28: $100,000–$150,000 per unit.
• BLU-109: $25,000–$84,000 per unit.

Deployment and Functionality

• Deployed by B2 bomber at high altitude for precision.
• Guidance systems (GPS, inertial navigation) control bomb's descent and trajectory via movable fins.
• On impact, its large mass and velocity enable deep penetration before detonation.
• Dual fuses (G-sensing, time-delay) ensure payload detonates at the correct depth.

MOP vs. MOAB

• MOP (Massive Ordnance Penetrator) is designed for deep penetration and is carried by bombers.
• MOAB (Mother of All Bombs) detonates above ground, creates massive shockwaves, and cannot penetrate underground.
• MOAB is delivered via C-130 aircraft using a pallet and parachute system.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Bunker Buster — a bomb designed to penetrate hardened underground targets.
• GBU-57 MOP — Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a deep-penetration bomb for destroying fortified underground facilities.
• MOAB — Massive Ordnance Air Blast, a large bomb designed to create a powerful blast above ground.
• Tritonal — an explosive mixture of 80% TNT and 20% aluminum powder.
• GPS — Global Positioning System used for precise navigation.
• Inertial Guidance System — uses motion sensors to track position without external signals.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Review differences between MOP and MOAB for future quizzes.
• Study bomb structure and guidance system details for exam.