Iran Equips Its Missiles With “Bunker-Buster” Detonators For Underground Fortress Guns

Defence affairs - def-geopolitics

In the increasingly turbulent geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, Iran is accelerating its military efforts by integrating a “bunker-buster” warhead specially designed to penetrate highly fortified underground bunkers.

The move marks a significant evolution in Tehran's military doctrine following the massive US airstrikes in June 2025 that disabled key nuclear enrichment facilities at Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan. The attacks used Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOPs) weighing approximately 13.6 tonnes and costing more than $3.5 million (around RM16.6 million) each.

The Islamic Republic of Iran's decision to upgrade its ballistic missiles with earth-penetrating warheads demonstrates its determination to strengthen its deterrence capabilities against adversaries with superior air power such as the United States and Israel.

This increase marks a major strategic shift in Iranian military thinking — from a focus on surface attacks and territorial control to the ability to destroy underground targets with high precision, including control centers, nuclear bunkers, and fortified military facilities.

This Iranian retaliation comes as regional tensions rise with Washington and Tel Aviv remaining on high alert after last summer's bombing.

The new missile doctrine now prioritizes disproportionate response through high-precision deep penetration strikes capable of penetrating conventional air defense systems and destroying targets previously considered impervious

Tehran's move has shifted the balance of power in the Middle East, positioning Iran to challenge high-tech adversaries with homegrown innovation, strategic patience and careful calculation of conflict escalation.