A primary cell having an anode comprising lithium and a cathode comprising iron disulfide (FeS2) and carbon particles. The electrolyte comprises a lithium salt dissolved in a solvent mixture. Iron disulfide powder and carbon black is preferably premixed and stored. A cathode slurry is prepared comprising iron disulfide, carbon black, binder, and a liquid solvent. The mixture is coated onto a substrate and solvent evaporated leaving a dry cathode coating on the substrate. The cathode coating is then baked at elevated temperatures in atmosphere under partial vacuum or in an atmosphere of nitrogen or inert gas. The anode and cathode can be spirally wound with separator therebetween and inserted into the cell casing with electrolyte then added.