It is believed that Iran possesses around 440 kilograms of highly enriched uranium, enriched up to almost 60 percent. For manufacturing nuclear weapons, uranium needs to be enriched to about 90 percent. This raises the pertinent question: Can Iran craft a dirty bomb using this existing material?
What is a Dirty Bomb?
A dirty bomb is known as a Radiological Dispersal Device (RDD). Unlike a nuclear bomb, it does not involve a nuclear chain reaction or fission. It's essentially a device that mixes conventional explosives (like dynamite or other traditional bombs) with radioactive substances. Its goal is not to trigger a nuclear explosion but to disperse radioactive pollution over an area.
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The radioactive material used in a dirty bomb can come from various sources, such as medical equipment (for example, Cesium-137 used in cancer treatment), industrial devices (like Cobalt-60), research institutions, or a country's stock of highly enriched uranium.
How Does It Work?
The radioactive material is packed around the explosive. It can be delivered by a drone, vehicle, or even a ballistic missile. Upon hitting its target, the explosive creates a massive blast, breaking the radioactive material into dust and fine particles that spread into the air. These particles tend to settle on ground surfaces, typically spanning a few city blocks. This contamination affects land, buildings, vehicles, people, air (through inhalation), and potentially water and food sources.
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Source: aajtak
There is neither a nuclear explosion nor a mushroom cloud like a nuclear bomb. Its intent is not mass destruction but to instigate panic, chaos, and economic damage. It's also known as an “area-denial weapon,” rendering an area unusable for a prolonged period. As of now, no country or non-state actor has employed a dirty bomb in warfare. The concept has long existed, yet practical application remains unseen.
Can Iran Manufacture Such a Weapon?
Technically, constructing a dirty bomb is relatively simpler compared to a nuclear bomb. It does not require intricate nuclear designs. In theory, if a nation owns radioactive material, explosive technology, and scientific expertise, it could develop such a device. Iran has a nuclear program, scientific infrastructure, and explosive expertise, so the possibility cannot be entirely dismissed.
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Would Iran Use It?
Analysts believe the likelihood of this happening is extremely low. Such an act would mean directly challenging nuclear-armed powers like the United States and Israel, risking serious military conflict and potential severe retaliation. Any nation opting for such a path faces a significant and dangerous decision.
