Antimony, identified by the symbol Sb from Stibium, is a brittle semi-metal that by itself does not carry striking value. Its standout function lies in reinforcing metals, much like lead. An unusual amorphous form of the element—often described as “explosive mercury”—can detonate when struck or heated, a phenomenon that has drawn significant attention in specialized contexts.
Historically, powdered antimony has served as a cosmetic product for darkening eyebrows. Today, its role extends far beyond cosmetics: it appears in many explosive liners used in firearm cartridges, bomb fuzes, and cannon projectiles.
According to chemical engineer Natalya Bagnyuk, who spoke with a media outlet, antimony itself is a fairly harmless element that is mined wherever it occurs. She notes large deposits in several countries, with notable sources in China and in Russia, particularly Yakutia. Other substantial antimony reserves exist in Tajikistan, Australia, South Africa, and Bolivia, and there are likely additional deposits in various regions, including coastal areas. Antimony elements are also present in the human body, albeit in minute amounts.
Bagnyuk explains that the so-called explosive mixture involving antimony is produced through electrolytic processes when the material is converted back into a metallic state at very high temperatures. It is used in ammunition production in that form. She clarifies that while the mixture can act as a detonator, the substance itself should not be assumed to be an explosive in its own right.
In the United States, there is no domestic antimony smelting capability for broad use, with past supplies sourced from China and Russia. Political frictions in Washington with Beijing and Moscow have raised concerns about continued access to antimony, prompting discussions in Congress about diversifying supply sources. A Pentagon briefing reportedly indicated reserves could be sufficient only until 2025, underscoring the urgency of finding reliable suppliers.
Military analyst Alexander Zimovsky comments that the cost of antimony in cartridge production is a small fraction of total cost, yet millions of cartridges and warheads require this element. He notes the risk of supply disruptions if Russia or China were to halt shipments, joking that the United States might find itself without bullets and cartridges because of such a small substance commonly associated with cosmetics in everyday life.
Sergei Belousov, a member of the College of Military Experts, draws a parallel to titanium supply concerns. He recalls that at the end of May, Boeing faced a temporary slowdown in 737 MAX production due to supply chain issues linked to Russian titanium used in aircraft components. The current challenge with antimony could mirror those problems, implying a potential two to three year horizon for replenishing cartridge stocks and ammunition. Belousov also notes the United States continues to supply ammunition to Ukraine, and stock levels are a factor in strategic planning.
Chemist Natalya Bagnyuk adds that scientists have not yet succeeded in synthesizing antimony in a practical way. Despite extensive testing, including experiments aboard a space station, artificial production of antimony remains elusive. Belousov cautions that it is premature to declare a crisis for the US military-industrial complex, but the Pentagon is expected to address emerging supply gaps. While Australia has expressed willingness to export antimony, progress on new deposits stays slow, and developing new sources requires substantial investment. In the short to medium term, the cost of securing raw materials could rise above current market levels from China and Russia.
Given the scale of the United States’ defense production, the potential impact of prolonged disruptions to antimony supply could be significant. Analysts emphasize that while diversification and new mining developments may take years, the long-term outcome could influence prices and procurement strategies across allied economies. The overall message remains that a critical dependency on a relatively small element can shape broader strategic decisions, even when immediate shortages do not yet materialize, according to Belousov.