Satellite Images Show Increased Construction at Iran's 'Kouh-e-Kard' Nuclear Site

Satellite imagery analyzed by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and obtained by CNN indicates a significant surge in construction activity at Iran's Kouh-e-Kard nuclear site during 2026. This site, located in the Zagros Mountains near the Natanz facility, has reportedly been used by Iran's Revolutionary Guard to move thousands of uranium enrichment centrifuges.

The construction increase occurred amidst ongoing conflict and was analyzed over six years by a team of experts. Kouh-e-Kard, also known as "Mount of the Pickaxe" in Hebrew reports, has remained undamaged during recent conflicts. Experts at CSIS suggest an underground facility at the site was likely designed as a secure haven for Iran's nuclear program, with excavation having taken place for six years.

Despite the construction, reports suggest the United States is developing means to strike the site, even though U.S. forces have focused on other targets during the current six-month conflict that began on February 28. CNN noted that four days before the U.S. operation "Wrath of the Almighty" began, a Pentagon program manager signed a $1.2 million emergency contract for "repair of an underground test facility" in New Mexico, intended for "live-fire testing designed to attack classified capabilities against rapidly evolving threats."

Three sources told CNN that the testing plans were linked to the war in Iran, specifically the need to develop methods for attacking deeply buried underground facilities. However, CNN could not verify if the test actually occurred. U.S. military officials reportedly possess operational plans to attack the strategic site, potentially using the largest bombs in the American arsenal, though it remains uncertain if these munitions could penetrate deep enough to destroy the transferred contents.

Kouh-e-Kard was commissioned as an underground replacement for an Iranian centrifuge assembly facility that was severely damaged in a 2020 explosion, possibly an act of sabotage. Israeli intelligence believes Iran transferred thousands of centrifuges to the deep tunnels there last fall. This intelligence was reportedly shared with the U.S., and the centrifuges were moved after the June 2025 "With the Lion" operation. Iran has accumulated approximately 440 kg of uranium enriched to 60%, with a relatively quick path to 90% enrichment. The location of this material remains a significant question, with reports suggesting it is stored in Isfahan, Qom, and Natanz, and potentially at Kouh-e-Kard.

Analysis from the Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS) in July indicated ongoing activity at the site, with vehicle movement observed on roads leading to tunnel entrances, suggesting continued work within the complex and reinforcement of entry points. U.S. intelligence agencies have warned that Iran has deployed ground forces to the fortified underground nuclear facility out of concern for a commando raid.