Doesn’t a B2 have to deliver those bunker busters?
AI:
Israel Bunker Buster Bombs Israel possesses aircraft capable of delivering bunker buster bombs, but not the largest and most powerful variants required to destroy deeply buried targets like Iran's Fordow nuclear facility. The Israeli Air Force operates fighter jets such as the F-35I, F-16I, and F-15I, which can carry smaller bunker-busting munitions, including 2,000- to 4,000-pound guided bombs. However, these aircraft lack the capacity to carry the U.S.-developed GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), a 30,000-pound bunker buster capable of penetrating over 200 feet of reinforced concrete.
The GBU-57 can only be deployed by large strategic bombers such as the U.S. B-2 Spirit or the upcoming B-21 Raider. Israel does not operate such heavy bomber aircraft, limiting its ability to strike deeply buried and heavily fortified facilities like Fordow. While Israel has reportedly conducted repeated airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, including Natanz and Isfahan, the damage inflicted has been largely superficial, and Fordow has remained untouched due to its extreme depth and protection within a mountain.
There have been discussions between U.S. and Israeli officials regarding the potential transfer of bunker-busting capabilities, including the GBU-57, but as of now, no such transfer has been confirmed. Israel has reportedly hinted at alternative methods to target Fordow, though the specifics remain undisclosed
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