Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesman Hossein Mohebbi announced on Wednesday that Iran is preparing to unveil a new heavy munition referred to as the "father of all bombs." Providing details on the development, Hossein Mohebbi stated, "We are now preparing to unveil the father of all bombs. This is something new for the enemy." The announcement marks the latest update regarding national military capabilities within Iran. No further technical specifications or deployment timelines were provided during the briefing. This statement serves as the primary official communication regarding the project’s current status and its intended role in the country’s defensive posture.
Comparison to American Weaponry
The United States GBU-43/B, often referred to as the "Mother of All Bombs," maintains a total weight of approximately 9,800 kilograms. Military records indicate that the United States first deployed this specific ordnance in April 2017. The weapon was utilized during an operation targeting a tunnel complex located in Afghanistan. This deployment remains the only documented instance of the GBU-43/B being used in an active combat theater. No further technical comparisons between the Iranian munition and the American GBU-43/B have been provided by officials. The weight of the American device, measured at approximately 9,800 kilograms, serves as the only specific metric available for assessing the scale of heavy conventional explosives currently held by international powers.
Escalating Tensions and Conflict
Israel and the United States launched a war against Iran on 28 February. Operations occurred amid broader regional instability involving multiple international actors. The conflict has seen a series of military engagements and strategic posturing between the involved nations.
Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding in June to address ongoing security concerns. Negotiations regarding this agreement later collapsed over the Strait of Hormuz. Disagreements concerning the maritime passage prevented the implementation of the memorandum’s provisions. The failure to finalize the terms of this agreement has left the security situation in the region unresolved.
U.S. President Donald Trump hinted on 16 October at the possible use of the GBU-43/B against Iranian nuclear facilities. The statement addressed the potential deployment of heavy munitions in response to current military developments. U.S. President Donald Trump hinted on Friday at the possible use of the GBU-43/B against Iranian nuclear facilities. These remarks highlight the ongoing strategic focus on the nation's nuclear infrastructure.
Hossein Mohebbi stated that the number of Iranian missiles increased by one and a half times following a 12-day confrontation between Israel and Iran that began in June 2025. This expansion in the national missile inventory followed the conclusion of the specified combat period. The increase in missile production remains a focal point of the military’s recent strategic adjustments.