While Israel’s long-range Jericho missiles and F-35s offer strategic strike capabilities, these alone may not be enough to neutralize deeply fortified Iranian targets.

Israel’s Arsenal: Power with Limits

The Jericho missile series can strike deep into Iran, but their ability to destroy reinforced underground sites remains uncertain. Specialized bunker-busting warheads—if in Israel’s inventory—are unconfirmed. Air-launched GBU-28 bombs offer precision, but their impact may be limited against ultra-hardened targets.

The U.S. Factor

Only the U.S. military holds the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), capable of reaching Iran’s most fortified facilities. Israel would likely need U.S. help—either via direct strikes or by receiving MOPs and critical intelligence.

The GBU-57 can only be deployed by the U.S. Air Force's B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. Israel does not operate the B-2 and has not been supplied with the MOP.

Bottom Line

Israel can hit Iran. But to eliminate its deepest missile bunkers, U.S. support could be the deciding factor. The ambiguity around both countries’ roles is part of the region’s evolving deterrence game.