The United States is preparing for what is being described as one of the most complex military operations in its modern history, aimed at seizing Iran’s enriched uranium. The mission is widely viewed by analysts as exceptionally difficult, if not near impossible.
Executing such an operation would require the full deployment of US military and technological capabilities, alongside ensuring the safety of forces operating in a highly hostile environment.
A High Stakes Operational Test
According to a report by Michael Evans in The Times, even with the readiness of US special forces, success would depend on multiple critical factors. These include precise intelligence, international coordination, and the ability to manage escalating security risks.
If approved by President Donald Trump, the mission would represent a major test of US special forces’ ability to execute high pressure operations within extremely limited timeframes.
The operation is expected to be led by the elite Delta Force unit, placing the full spectrum of US capabilities under scrutiny, from intelligence gathering to logistical execution.
The Uranium Challenge: Location and Complexity
The primary objective involves securing approximately 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent, believed to be stored at Iran’s Natanz nuclear facility.
Roughly 200 kilograms of this material is reportedly buried in an underground bunker at Natanz, while the remaining portion may be located at the Fordow site near Tehran.
The mission extends beyond locating the material. It requires avoiding detection, surviving potential combat engagements, and safely extracting nuclear material under extreme conditions.
Military Build Up and Specialised Units
Prior to the recent US Israeli war on Iran in June 2025, American officials had stated that Iran possessed enough enriched uranium to produce up to 11 nuclear weapons.
US intelligence assessments indicate that additional specialised units may be required for the operation, including Green Berets and the 75th Ranger Regiment, all trained to operate in nuclear environments.
The report notes that Delta Force units have undergone training exercises simulating what could be an exceptionally difficult raid.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard: A Major Obstacle
The operation faces a formidable challenge in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, which is responsible for securing the country’s nuclear facilities.
With more than 150,000 personnel, the Guard represents a significant defensive force capable of complicating any ground operation.
Military experts stress that accurate intelligence on the precise locations of the uranium stockpiles is critical. Coordination with Israeli units is also seen as a key factor, given their intelligence capabilities and networks within Iran.
Not a Straightforward Mission
Despite US technological superiority, the mission is far from straightforward. A former British special forces soldier cited in the report described the task of securing enriched uranium sites as extremely complex, particularly given the presence of well trained Iranian forces.
On the air support front, the United States is preparing a wide range of assets, including reconnaissance aircraft, fighter jets, helicopters, and drones.
Technology and Geopolitical Variables
The US is also relying on advanced artificial intelligence systems such as the Maven platform, which enhances real time data collection and analysis, allowing for faster and more precise target identification.
However, the operation is further complicated by external variables. China and Russia are expected to support Iran, particularly through satellite intelligence and data sharing, which could significantly impact the operational environment.
The former British soldier concluded: “Despite all the advances in technology and training for these types of missions, I find it difficult to believe they would risk a ground operation of this nature.”
