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14h ago

Air Force Finalizing $100M-Plus Boeing Buy to Replenish Massive Ordnance Penetrators

Newly released documents indicate this will be the final MOP lot as the service pivots to a smaller Next-Generation Penetrator.

A GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator prepared for transport at Whiteman AFB.(Image credit: Whiteman AFB FB page)

Overview

  • The Air Force disclosed plans to purchase full GBU-57 weapon systems from Boeing, with tailkit deliveries projected to begin on Jan. 10, 2028.
  • Partially redacted justification documents say the limited-competition action is required to restore operational readiness and ensure AFGSC can meet combatant command war plans.
  • The exact quantity of bombs and some delivery details remain redacted, leaving the size of the replenishment and total inventory unclear.
  • The service states MOP production will conclude after this procurement while the competitively developed Next-Generation Penetrator advances, targeting a sub-22,000-pound design and broader government data rights.
  • A SAM.gov notice lists a contracting action for MOP production and support dated Feb. 10, 2026, as the Air Force replaces weapons expended when B-2s dropped 14 MOPs on Iran’s Fordow and Natanz during Operation Midnight Hammer.