Ammunition Shortages: Could the U.S. Military Be Caught Unprepared?
Running on Empty: The Alarming Reality of U.S. Military Stockpiles in a World of Growing Threats
Editorial Team (ET)May 9, 2025
As global conflicts escalate, from Ukraine to the Middle East, the strain on U.S. military resources is becoming impossible to ignore. The stockpiles that safeguard America’s defense are rapidly depleting, revealing a glaring vulnerability: a dangerous shortage of antimony. This critical metal, used in everything from ammunition to advanced military systems, is now at the forefront of conversations about national security.
Military Metals CEO Scott Eldridge sounded the alarm at the Nordic Funds and Mines Conference, emphasizing, “If Germany were to enter any military action today, they have two days of ammunition. The United States currently has 20 days of antimony inventory. And that's not just for the defense sector—that's for all uses of antimony.”
With over 80% of the world’s antimony supply controlled by China, the urgency to secure domestic sources is clearer than ever. Timing, as Eldridge stated, is everything.
What is Antimony, and Why is it Crucial?
Antimony is a metalloid with properties that make it indispensable in military applications. It strengthens lead in bullets, enhances the durability of military batteries, and is a key component in flame retardants and advanced electronics. Without antimony, modern warfare becomes nearly impossible to sustain.
During World War II, antimony was considered a critical material, enabling the production of ammunition and equipment that defined Allied victories. Today, its role has expanded to include sophisticated missile systems and layered air defense technologies like Patriot missiles and THAAD systems.
The Current Crisis: Depleting Military Stockpiles
Admiral Sam Paparo recently highlighted how global conflicts are draining U.S. military resources. Speaking on the strain on air defense stockpiles, he remarked, “With some of the Patriots that have been employed, some of the air-to-air missiles that have been employed, it's now eating into stocks and to say otherwise would be dishonest.”
This depletion extends beyond missiles. Antimony, a key component in these systems, is being used at unprecedented rates, leaving the U.S. with limited reserves.
U.S. forces defending Red Sea shipping lanes against missile and drone attacks from Houthi rebels in Yemen are adding to the demand for antimony-based materials. These missions highlight how conflicts far from home impact America’s defense readiness.
Military Metals CEO: The Case for Urgency
At the Nordic Funds and Mines Conference, Scott Eldridge revealed a sobering fact: the U.S. has just 20 days of antimony inventory for all uses, including military and industrial applications. This pales in comparison to the potential length of modern conflicts, leaving the U.S. exposed to supply chain disruptions.
Eldridge stressed, “Timing is everything in regards to the metal that you're giving your shareholders exposure to. And right now is the ideal time for us as investors to be looking very closely at antimony.” His words underscore the urgent need for action to secure domestic sources of this critical resource.
Why the U.S. Depends on Antimony
China’s dominance in antimony production—controlling over 80% of global supply—creates a significant strategic vulnerability for the United States. If China restricts exports amid rising geopolitical tensions, the U.S. could face a catastrophic shortage.
Antimony’s uses extend far beyond ammunition. It’s vital for the production of semiconductors, flame retardants, and even renewable energy technologies. A shortage would ripple across multiple industries, compounding the crisis.
A Military Without Resources?
The chilling possibility of the U.S. running out of ammunition and other military essentials is no longer hypothetical. Military experts have warned, “One of the lessons from Ukraine is we can have the best weapons in the world, but if we run out of bullets it won't matter a damn.”
Germany’s current two-day ammunition inventory further highlights the precariousness of modern military preparedness. The U.S.’s slightly better 20-day antimony inventory underscores the need for immediate action.
The Role of Military Metals in Solving the Crisis
Military Metals is working to address this crisis by exploring and developing domestic sources of antimony. By reducing reliance on foreign suppliers, the company aims to bolster U.S. military readiness and secure critical supply chains.
Military Metals is also committed to sustainable mining practices, ensuring that increased production doesn’t come at the cost of environmental integrity. This dual focus on security and sustainability is vital for long-term success.
Investing in Antimony: A Bullish Outlook
With antimony gaining attention in the mainstream media, investors are beginning to recognize its potential. Scott Eldridge’s remarks highlight why now is the ideal time to invest in this strategic metal.
Investing in companies like Military Metals isn’t just about financial returns—it’s about safeguarding the future of America’s defense capabilities. The overlap of economic growth and national security makes antimony an unparalleled opportunity for investors.
The Final Nail
The United States is at a crossroads. As global conflicts deplete military resources, securing critical materials like antimony has become a matter of national urgency. With only 20 days of inventory remaining, the time to act is now. Companies like Military Metals are leading the way, offering a sustainable path to securing America’s future.
In a world where timing is everything, the U.S. cannot afford to wait. Investing in antimony isn’t just a strategic move—it’s a necessity for national survival.
