MOAB, short for "massive ordnance air burst" bomb, is a 21,000-pound bomb that is pushed out the back of a C-130 transport and guided by satellite. Because it is not dropped by parachute, as was the old Daisy Cutter, the aircraft can let it go from far higher altitudes, making it safer for U.S. pilots.



The MOAB's massive explosive punch is similar to a small nuclear weapon.



It is intended to obliterate a command center hidden in tunnels and bunkers or a concentration of tanks.



One important aspect of using this type of weapon will be psychological impact on enemy troops. It is intended to terrorize troops, drastically reducing their desire to continue the fight.