The United States Air Force has taken an important step in the development of its next bunker-buster bomb by confirming the official designation GBU-76/B for the Next Generation Penetrator (NGP).
The weapon was designed to replace the current GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), widely known after being used against underground Iranian nuclear facilities during Operation Midnight Hammer. The new weapon is expected to offer capability equal to or greater than that of its predecessor.
Recently released contracting documents show that the program is moving into a broader development phase, involving research, production, testing and integration. The areas covered include the creation of new fuzes, alternative navigation systems capable of operating even without GPS, development of the explosive charge and integration of the munition into aircraft. The list also includes mission-planning software, training equipment and logistics support.
Although many details remain classified, the Air Force has already indicated that the GBU-76/B warhead is expected to weigh around 10 tons, potentially resulting in a weapon with a total mass between 9 and 13.6 tons. Studies are also underway to incorporate innovative technologies, including powered systems that would increase range and potentially improve penetration capability against heavily protected targets.
The program reflects growing U.S. concern over increasingly sophisticated underground facilities in countries such as China, Russia, North Korea and Iran. While the MOP will continue to receive updates and remain in service for several years, the future GBU-76/B is expected to significantly expand the conventional options available to destroy deep bunkers and other highly protected military structures.
Source: The War Zone | Photos: USAF | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
