US Shipment of MK-84 Bombs to Israel: What You Need to Know

One of the first actions taken by US President Donald Trump was to authorize a shipment of 1,800 MK-84 bombs to Israel. The shipment, which had been delayed during the presidency of Joe Biden, was confirmed to have arrived in Israel this morning. But what is the significance of these bombs, and why are they so important to Israel's defense?

The MK-84 Bomb: An Overview

The MK-84 is a 900-kilogram bomb, significantly heavier than its counterparts, the MK-82 (25% of the weight) and MK-83 (half the weight). Brig. Gen. (res.) Israel Shafir, a former squadron commander and commander of Israel's flight school, explains that the MK-84’s heavy weight allows it to penetrate deeper into targets, making it a powerful weapon for the Israeli Air Force. The bomb works on the principle of mass and velocity—its heavy weight combined with its speed allows it to hit deep, ensuring a more impactful strike.

The MK-84 bomb can be configured to either explode on impact or be delayed for a few milliseconds, offering versatility in its deployment. The bomb's effectiveness also depends on the fuze, and while it is not guided, the bomb can be fitted with GPS kits or laser guidance systems for more precise targeting. This adaptability makes the MK-84 a critical asset for Israel’s defense forces, especially when conditions such as poor visibility or cloudy skies make traditional targeting difficult.

Since the onset of the Iron Sword War, the US has provided Israel with more than 10,000 MK-84 bombs, as well as other significant supplies like 57,000 155mm artillery shells, 20,000 M4A1 rifles, and 13,981 anti-tank missiles. According to research from the Watson Institute at the University of Washington, in the first year of the war alone, Israel received 14,100 MK-84 bombs from the US.

Each MK-84 bomb is estimated to cost between $10,000 and $25,000, depending on various factors, such as the quantity ordered and delivery specifics. On average, the price of each bomb hovers around $16,000.

The MK-84 bomb's role is essential in Israel's military strategy, as it provides the Israeli Air Force with a robust tool to strike targets with precision, even in challenging conditions. With these new deliveries, Israel’s military capabilities are significantly enhanced.*