Fordow's Secret Weapon: Geology Turns Mountain into Impenetrable Fortress

A new analysis reveals the true strength behind Iran’s heavily fortified Fordow nuclear facility lies not just in its 90-meter underground depth, but in the rugged geology of the Zagros Mountains. As tensions escalate following Israel’s Operation Rising Lion airstrikes on June 13, 2025, experts are uncovering why Fordow remains a tough target.

The facility, carved into the heart of the Zagros range, is shielded by layers of hard sedimentary rocks, including limestone and dolomite, nature’s own bomb shelter, stretching tens of meters thick. Unlike the softer alluvial soil beneath Natanz, Fordow’s rocky foundation absorbs the impact of bunker-busting bombs, rendering them less effective, according to geologist Tommy Borenshtain.

Borenshtain, posting on X on June 17, highlighted the region’s tectonic pressures, which have created a complex, folded, and fractured rock structure. This “maze” of uneven layers complicates precise mapping and penetration, posing a significant challenge to any airstrike. “Every bomb would have to navigate this natural fortress,” he noted.

The strategic choice of location underscores Iran’s military planning. While Natanz, partially built on softer ground, is more vulnerable, Fordow’s million-year-old geology offers unparalleled protection. Satellite imagery, widely circulated online, shows the surface structure, but the real defense lies 90 meters below, within the mountain itself.

As Israel’s air campaign continues to target Iranian nuclear sites, the geological advantage of Fordow could prove a game-changer.