{
  "id": 958645,
  "title": "Why cotton fibres could be key in the global arms race",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/15/why-cotton-fibres-could-be-key-in-the-global-arms-race",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-15T04:56:22.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Al Majalla English",
    "slug": "al-majalla-english",
    "url": "https://en.majalla.com/node/332534/business-economy/why-cotton-fibres-could-be-key-global-arms-race"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": null,
  "summary": "Cotton fibres, typically associated with everyday items like towels and bedsheets, are gaining prominence in the realm of global warfare. This is due to their short fibres, known as cotton linters, which are a vital source of high-purity cellulose used to manufacture nitrocellulose. This substance is a key ingredient in many smokeless propellants used in ammunition, including artillery shells. The unique properties of cotton linters, such as their high cellulose content (up to 98%), make them an ideal raw material for cellulose derivatives used in defence production. However, the global supply chain for nitrocellulose, a byproduct of cotton linters, is facing potential bottlenecks. This is primarily due to the strain on supplies since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which has exposed the limits of global capacity for nitrocellulose production. Many NATO members, especially those in Europe, are struggling to secure the cotton linters needed for nitrocellulose production. This is particularly concerning as Europe heavily relies on Chinese cotton linters, which account for about 70% of Europe's linter requirements. In the event of trade restrictions or escalating geopolitical tensions with China, Europe may face significant challenges in maintaining its ammunition production levels.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}