'Surge in construction' at suspected Iranian nuclear site, Pentagon eyes destruction tests

Analysts have reported a significant increase in construction activity at a suspected Iranian nuclear facility, dubbed "Pickaxe Mountain," located near Iran's Natanz complex. Satellite imagery analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) indicates a "clear surge" in work throughout 2026, focusing on reinforcing the deeply buried underground complex and developing its surrounding infrastructure. This site, situated beneath a granite mountain approximately 140 miles south of Tehran, is believed to be designed as a secure location for Iran's nuclear program, potentially for centrifuge assembly or uranium enrichment.

The heightened activity at the Pickaxe Mountain site has prompted the Pentagon to intensify its exploration of methods for destroying such fortified underground facilities. Concerns exist that current conventional "bunker-busting" weapons, like the Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP), may not be capable of reaching or neutralizing targets buried deep within granite. Consequently, the United States is actively developing a "next-generation penetrator" bomb and has conducted emergency tests at subterranean facilities to validate new classified capabilities against deeply buried threats.

This development comes amidst escalating tensions, with President Donald Trump having repeatedly threatened to strike the Pickaxe Mountain site. While analysts caution that the continued construction suggests the facility may not yet be operational for uranium enrichment, its enhanced fortification presents a considerable challenge for any potential military action.