The US Air Force has awarded Applied Research Associates (ARA) a 24-month contract to develop the Next Generation Penetrator (NGP) weapon system, intended to replace the GBU-57/B Massive Ordnance Penetrator. The NGP will target deeply buried bunkers and tunnels with advanced penetration, blast, and fragmentation effects. ARA will design prototypes with support from Boeing, prime contractor of the GBU-57/B. The current 30,000-pound MOP was recently used in Operation Midnight Hammer against Iranian nuclear facilities, informing NGP’s requirements. Future designs aim for a lighter weapon under 22,000 pounds, with embedded fuzing for precise detonation. The Air Force has requested $73.7 million in FY2026 to continue testing and development, reinforcing U.S. dominance in next-generation strike capabilities.