Ukraine War Triggers Explosives Shortage in U.S.

Due to the full-scale war in Ukraine, the United States has faced a shortage of TNT, which is actively used in the production of artillery shells, missiles, and other types of weaponry.

In response, the U.S. Congress has approved the construction of a new TNT production plant in the state of Kentucky. The project is estimated to cost $435 million, according to The New York Times.

The facility is expected to launch operations by the end of 2028. At the same time, the explosives produced will be intended exclusively for military use.

Poland has remained the United States’ only official supplier of TNT. However, a substantial portion of its explosive production is currently being directed to Ukraine and used to meet its own defense needs.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that the two other major suppliers of explosive materials, Russia and China, have completely ceased exports to the U.S., according to American officials.

Such limitations are placing additional pressure on the U.S. defense industry. The shortage of explosive materials is being felt not only by weapons manufacturers but also by civilian sectors.

One potential alternative to TNT is pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), which is already being produced at three facilities in the United States. However, as The New York Times notes, the pace at which its production could be scaled up remains uncertain. Moreover, PETN is more expensive and technologically complex to use, which is why it is not considered a full-fledged replacement for TNT.