Satellite images released by Maxar Technologies show unusual activity at Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility in the days leading up to U.S. air strikes on June 21-22, 2025. Specifically, on June 19 and 20, satellite photos revealed multiple trucks and bulldozers near the main entrance of the underground site, with about 16 cargo trucks initially lined up on the access road and then moving to a nearby location, while new heavy machinery appeared close to the tunnel entrance
Fordow is one of Iran’s most heavily fortified nuclear enrichment sites, located about 120 kilometers southwest of Tehran and buried 80 to 90 meters underground inside a mountain, protected by reinforced concrete and air defenses. It is considered a cornerstone of Iran’s nuclear program, capable of producing enough weapons-grade uranium for several nuclear bombs in a few weeks
The observed activity suggests Iran may have been preparing or reinforcing the facility, possibly anticipating the U.S. strikes. Analysts speculate the movement could indicate efforts to move sensitive equipment or strengthen the tunnels in preparation for a fallout, although relocating centrifuges is logistically complex due to their sensitivity and the site’s depth
On June 21, the U.S. launched precision air strikes on Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites using bunker-buster bombs capable of penetrating deep underground. President Trump described the operation as a successful military action aimed at destroying Iran’s nuclear enrichment capabilities, though independent verification of the damage and impact remains unclear. Iranian authorities reported no radiation leaks or contamination following the strikes
In summary, satellite imagery confirms heightened logistical and vehicular activity at Fordow just before the U.S. air strikes, indicating Iran may have anticipated the attack and taken measures to protect or relocate critical nuclear assets