Bomb Penetration Is Expected, Not Impressive

Postol explains that the 30,000-lb GBU-57 bomb, dropped from high altitude at near Mach 2, would easily punch through even ultra-high-performance concrete.

This is standard physics, not a sign of exceptional targeting.

Debris Came from Venting, Not Direct Impact

The debris observed around the shaft likely resulted from explosive gases venting back up the tunnel, not from the bomb’s initial impact. This implies the internal structure wasn’t destroyed, just vented upward.

Iranian Preparedness Was Technically Sophisticated

Iran clearly anticipated the attack, evidenced by the concrete caps placed over the vents. Postol suggests:

These caps were likely inhomogeneous and layered concrete—designed to deflect or slow the bomb and reduce penetration power.

The bottom of the vents was probably also sealed with reinforced barriers to protect underground assets like centrifuges.

The entire ventilation shaft was likely lined with ultra-high-performance concrete, engineered to withstand pressure and avoid shattering.

Deception or Ignorance in U.S. Briefing

Postol criticizes the Pentagon leadership (esp. the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs) for either:

Lacking technical understanding,

Forgetting important briefings, or

Intentionally misleading the public about the strike’s effectiveness.

He stresses that removing enriched uranium from the site would’ve been easy for the Iranians once they anticipated a strike, which they clearly did.

Personal Reflections on Military Briefings

Postol recalls past briefings with the Navy and Congress, noting that good leaders ask critical questions and retain technical details.

He praises Tulsi Gabbard for her diligence and willingness to challenge intelligence narratives.

He criticizes Sen. Mark Kelly, who dismissed Postol’s attempts to offer clarification on Syria-related intelligence.

Conclusion

Postol argues the Pentagon’s presentation of the bombing operation was either misinformed or deliberately misleading. He asserts the bomb’s physical penetration was predictable, and that Iran’s defenses—technical and strategic—likely blunted the operation’s objectives, protecting their nuclear assets. He challenges U.S. leadership to be more technically informed and honest with the public.

 

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Featured image: GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (Public Domain)

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