GBU-57 vs. MOAB

Attribute	GBU-57	MOAB
Full Form	Guided Bomb Unit-57	Massive Ordnance Air Blast
Weight	5,300 pounds	21,600 pounds
Explosive Power	2,000 pounds	18,700 pounds
Guidance System	GPS/INS	None
Deployment	Air-dropped	Air-dropped

Introduction

When it comes to powerful bombs used in military operations, two of the most well-known options are the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) and the Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB). Both of these bombs are designed to deliver a devastating blow to enemy targets, but they have different attributes that make them unique in their own right.

Size and Weight

The GBU-57 MOP is a massive bomb, weighing in at around 30,000 pounds. It is designed to penetrate deep into the ground before detonating, making it ideal for destroying underground bunkers and hardened targets. On the other hand, the MOAB is slightly lighter, weighing around 21,000 pounds. However, what it lacks in weight, it makes up for in size, as the MOAB is one of the largest non-nuclear bombs in existence.

Explosive Power

When it comes to explosive power, both the GBU-57 and MOAB pack a serious punch. The GBU-57 is designed to deliver a high-explosive yield upon detonation, making it capable of destroying heavily fortified targets. The MOAB, on the other hand, is known for its massive blast radius, which can decimate everything in its vicinity. While the GBU-57 is more focused on penetrating deep into the ground, the MOAB is designed to create a shockwave that can cause widespread destruction.

Delivery Method

One of the key differences between the GBU-57 and MOAB is their delivery method. The GBU-57 is typically dropped from a bomber aircraft, such as a B-2 Spirit, at high altitudes. This allows it to build up speed and momentum before reaching its target. On the other hand, the MOAB is usually dropped from a cargo plane, such as a C-130 Hercules, at a lower altitude. This allows for more precise targeting and control over where the bomb will detonate.

Cost and Availability

Due to their size and complexity, both the GBU-57 and MOAB are expensive weapons to produce. The GBU-57 is estimated to cost around $16 million per unit, while the MOAB is slightly cheaper at around $170,000 per unit. In terms of availability, the GBU-57 is a more specialized weapon that is used in specific situations, while the MOAB has been used more frequently in recent years due to its versatility and effectiveness in certain combat scenarios.

Effectiveness in Combat

Both the GBU-57 and MOAB have been used in combat operations with varying degrees of success. The GBU-57 has been used in conflicts such as the war in Afghanistan to target underground caves and bunkers used by enemy forces. The MOAB gained widespread attention when it was dropped on a network of tunnels used by ISIS in Afghanistan, resulting in a significant number of casualties. While both bombs have proven to be effective in certain situations, their use is often controversial due to the collateral damage they can cause.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the GBU-57 and MOAB are two powerful bombs that serve different purposes on the battlefield. The GBU-57 is designed for deep penetration and destruction of hardened targets, while the MOAB is known for its massive blast radius and shockwave effect. Both bombs have their own unique attributes that make them valuable assets in military operations, but their use must be carefully considered due to the destructive power they possess.