Pentagon Supports NioCorp and Lockheed Martin in Scandium Defense Initiative

NioCorp Developments Ltd. has partnered with Lockheed Martin to advance a scandium-based defense technology. Funded by the U.S. Department of War, this project aims to develop aluminum-scandium alloy components for fighter aircraft. Specific details about the initiative remain undisclosed.

This effort links domestic critical materials production to high-tech applications for defense. By producing 100 tonnes annually of scandium oxide, NioCorp aims to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign sources, impacting both defense and commercial sectors.

The $10 million agreement under Title III of the Defense Production Act supports the scandium supply chain via Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project in Nebraska, enhancing U.S. mineral independence.