U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on March 18, 2026, that American forces deployed multiple 5,000-pound deep-penetrator munitions targeting hardened Iranian missile sites. The precision strikes hit reinforced coastal bunkers along the Strait of Hormuz, which housed Iran’s anti-ship cruise missile (ASCM) batteries.
Military officials described the operation as a necessary measure to neutralize the persistent threat to international shipping and global energy corridors. The strikes are part of Operation Epic Fury, which has been ongoing for 19 days.
GBU-72/B Advanced Penetrator Makes Combat Debut
Defense officials confirmed that the strike marked the combat debut of the GBU-72/B Advanced 5,000-pound Penetrator, although CENTCOM's initial statement did not explicitly name the munition. The GBU-72/B offers enhanced capabilities compared to older munitions.
Unlike the laser-guided GBU-28, the GBU-72/B utilizes a GPS/INS guidance tail kit, enabling high-altitude releases regardless of weather conditions. This feature is particularly important in the dust-heavy environments of the Iranian coastline.
Designed to Destroy Subterranean Missile Storage
The munition is engineered to penetrate dozens of feet of reinforced concrete or earth before detonating. This "delayed fuse" technology aims to collapse subterranean hangars used by Iran to store its Noor and Ghadir anti-ship missiles. The missiles pose a direct threat to naval and commercial vessels navigating the Strait.
F-15E Strike Eagles and B-1B Lancers reportedly carried out the primary sorties. They were supported by EA-18G Growlers, which provided electronic warfare cover. The selection of these aircraft was crucial for the mission's success.
Targeting the "Brains" of Iran's Coastal Defense
CENTCOM stated that the targets were not merely isolated launchers but the core components of Iran’s coastal defense system. The operation aimed to degrade Iran's ability to project power in the region and disrupt international shipping lanes.
Over the past year, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had reportedly encased its coastal batteries in "Taleghan-style" concrete shells covered by soil. These fortifications were designed to protect them from standard 1,000-lb or 2,000-lb Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs).
Strait of Hormuz Remains a Key Chokepoint
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. CENTCOM asserted that the neutralized sites "posed a direct and imminent risk" to tankers and U.S. naval assets. The security of the Strait is crucial for global energy markets.
The current operation follows the March 15 strikes on Kharg Island, where U.S. forces destroyed naval mine storage facilities. According to CENTCOM, these actions form a systematic effort to "clear the lanes" for future international transit.
Growing International Disagreement Over Campaign Scale
The strike occurred amidst growing disagreement between the United States and its allies regarding the scale of Operation Epic Fury. Several nations have expressed concerns about the potential for escalation in the region.
President Donald J. Trump voiced "disappointment" that NATO allies, including Germany and France, as well as Japan and South Korea, declined to participate in a proposed joint escort mission. The lack of international consensus underscores the complexity of the situation.
President Trump's Response to Allies' Hesitation
In a post on Truth Social, President Trump stated that the United States is "the most powerful country anywhere in the world and we do not need the help of anyone" to unblock the waterway. This statement reflects the administration's commitment to unilateral action.
Global oil prices have fluctuated following the news of the strikes. J.P. Morgan analysts cautioned that regional producers can only sustain output for "no more than 25 days" if the strait remains a high-intensity combat zone.
CENTCOM Statement: "No Depth We Cannot Reach"
"The Iranian regime thought their bunkers were impenetrable," a CENTCOM spokesperson stated. "A few hours ago, we proved that there is no depth we cannot reach and no threat we cannot eliminate." The statement emphasizes the effectiveness of the GBU-72/B and the resolve of the U.S. military.
The deployment of the GBU-72/B signals a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions in the Middle East. The long-term implications for regional stability and global energy markets remain to be seen.
Photo credit: Image from U.S. Central Command