The US Army has announced the launch of an unprecedented initiative: plants for processing critical minerals will be built on the territory of active military bases across the country. This decision, made as part of the administration's strategy, aims to sharply increase domestic production of key materials and reduce dependence on imports.
Strategic alliance with the private sector
The Pentagon has signed agreements with four leading companies — REalloys, Titan Mining, Ioneer, and EnergyX — to build facilities for processing rare earth minerals, graphite, lithium, and boron. This is the first time in history that the US Army has placed commercial mining and processing capacity directly on its own facilities.
REalloys will build a rare earth element separation plant at the Tooele Army Depot in Utah. The product will be stored on-site, ensuring direct supply for military needs. Titan Mining plans to build a graphite purification plant either at the Pine Bluff Arsenal in Arkansas or at the Anniston Army Depot in Alabama.
EnergyX and Ioneer (the only one of the four not American — based in Sydney) will be responsible for creating lithium and boron production facilities, respectively.
Why this matters: from electronics to defense
These minerals are the foundation of the modern economy: they are used in consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and defense technologies. Over the past few decades, most American mines and processing plants have been closed, creating a critical dependence on foreign supplies, especially from China.
The US administration is rushing to change this situation, seeking to regain control over the supply chains of strategic resources. Construction of the plants will begin in 2027, and mining operations are scheduled for 2028.
Global context: lessons for partners
This initiative demonstrates a new approach to national security: the integration of military infrastructure with industrial production. A similar model could serve as an example for other countries striving for energy and resource independence.
Recall that in May 2025, Ukraine and the US signed an agreement to create a US-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund with equal participation from both sides. The Fund's funds will be directed to new Ukrainian projects — from mining to infrastructure, while full control over the subsoil will remain with Ukraine. This underscores the global trend towards strengthening sovereignty in the resource sector.