DISSEMINATED ON BEHALF OF MILITARY METALS
The escalating trade war between the United States and China has brought renewed focus to critical minerals, particularly antimony, a strategic material essential to defense, technology, and national security. Recent developments, including China’s export restrictions and advancements in artificial intelligence, have amplified the urgency of securing domestic supply chains for these vital resources.
China’s Tight Grip on Critical Minerals
In September 2024, China imposed strict export restrictions on antimony and related products, cutting off a significant portion of the global supply. As the dominant producer, responsible for over 70% of the world’s output, China’s actions have sent shockwaves through international markets, driving prices to record highs of over $46,000 per tonne.
This move comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and a race to control the materials that power everything from ammunition and military batteries to green technologies and semiconductors. For Western nations, including the U.S., the reliance on China for critical minerals like antimony represents a glaring vulnerability.
DeepSeek AI’s Breakthrough: A Wake-Up Call
China’s recent AI breakthrough with DeepSeek has further escalated trade tensions. The Chinese company’s advancements in artificial intelligence have demonstrated that the country is not only a dominant supplier of critical minerals but also a rising force in cutting-edge technology.
The development underscores a growing concern: without secure domestic supply chains for key materials like antimony, the U.S. risks falling behind in both defense capabilities and technological innovation. Antimony, for instance, is critical for infrared missiles, ammunition, and other military applications, as well as for the advanced semiconductors that power AI systems.
As one industry expert put it, “DeepSeek’s AI breakthrough is turning up the heat on US-China trade tensions. It’s a clear sign we need to lock down domestic supply chains for critical minerals—key to defense, tech, and national security—before it’s too late.”
The U.S. Response: Tariffs and Domestic Supply Chains
President Trump recently announced sweeping tariffs on metals like copper and critical minerals to bolster domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. Speaking to lawmakers, he emphasized the importance of reshoring production:
“We’re going to protect our people, our businesses, and our military. We have to bring production back to our country.”
These tariffs are part of a broader effort to secure domestic supply chains for materials critical to national security. The move aligns with projects like Perpetua Resources’ Stibnite Gold Project in Idaho, which aims to establish a domestic source of antimony with support from the Pentagon. However, while such initiatives are promising, they are still years away from delivering significant supply.
Military Metals (CSE:MILI)(OTC:MILIF) - A Key Player in the Antimony Space
Amid growing global concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities, Military Metals Corp. has become a major player in the effort to secure reliable, domestic, and allied sources of antimony. By acquiring high-potential assets across North America and Europe, the company is working to provide a critical solution to the West’s dependence on Chinese exports.
West Gore Antimony Project (Nova Scotia, Canada):
This historic project, once Canada’s largest producer of antimony, is being revitalized by Military Metals. Operating from 1882 to 1939, West Gore played a vital role in the global antimony market, and its potential remains significant. The project’s historical high-grade results, including 3.4% antimony over 7 meters, highlight its value as a future source of this critical mineral.
Additionally, waste rock dumps at the site contain an estimated 570 tonnes of antimony and 2,500 ounces of gold. With current market prices, this material alone is valued at over $30 million. Military Metals is focused on modernizing operations to efficiently process these materials while conducting further exploration to unlock the site’s long-term potential.
Trojarova and Tienesgrund Projects (Slovakia):
The acquisition of these Slovakian assets is a significant step in Military Metals’ mission to reduce Europe’s reliance on China for antimony. Trojarova, considered one of Europe’s largest antimony deposits, has a historical resource of approximately 60,800 tonnes of antimony, valued at over $2.6 billion at today’s prices. Historical exploration included 63 drill holes and substantial underground development, providing a solid foundation for further advancement.
These projects are aligned with the European Union’s Critical Raw Materials Act, which encourages the development of domestic resources to strengthen supply chains. Military Metals plans to work within Slovakia’s strong mining framework and take advantage of potential EU funding to advance these projects into production.
Last Chance Project (Nevada, USA):
The Last Chance project, located near the historic Round Mountain Gold Mine, is another key addition to Military Metals’ portfolio. This site has a history of antimony production dating back to the early 20th century, including contributions during both World Wars.
Military Metals has plans to begin detailed exploration, including mapping, sampling, and drilling, to assess the site’s full potential. The project is expected to become a valuable domestic source of both antimony and gold, supporting the United States’ growing need for critical minerals.
Strategic Vision and Global Reach:
With projects spanning Canada, Europe, and the U.S., Military Metals is building a diversified portfolio to reduce dependence on a single jurisdiction and address critical mineral shortages. By focusing on brownfield projects—sites with historical production and existing infrastructure—the company is able to accelerate timelines, minimize environmental impact, and unlock value efficiently.
CEO Scott Eldridge underscored the importance of the company’s mission:
“We are working to address the critical need for antimony in defence, energy, and technology. With projects like West Gore, Trojarova, and Last Chance, Military Metals is creating real solutions for secure and sustainable supply chains, while contributing to the long-term strength of the U.S. and its allies.”
Military Metals’ approach, grounded in strategy and efficiency, puts the company in a strong position to reshape the critical mineral landscape. With growing demand, rising prices, and increasing geopolitical pressures, Military Metals is working to secure the resources needed for national security and economic stability.
What’s at Stake
The implications of these developments go far beyond economics. Geopolitical tensions, from the South China Sea to Eastern Europe, are driving demand for defense materials like antimony, while China’s export restrictions highlight the fragility of existing supply chains.
The U.S. Department of Defense has already flagged antimony as a critical material for national security. Without secure access to this resource, Western nations risk compromising their military preparedness and technological leadership.
President Trump’s recent remarks capture the urgency of the situation:
“We’re placing tariffs on metals like copper and critical minerals because we have to secure our supply chains for national security. If you want to stop paying these tariffs, build your plant right here in America.”
The message is clear: the time to act is now.
A Call to Action
As trade tensions rise and global supply chains falter, companies like Military Metals Corp. are stepping up to secure the critical resources that power our economy, defense systems, and technological future. With its strategic focus on antimony, Military Metals is helping to build a more resilient, self-sufficient supply chain for North America and its allies.
For policymakers, investors, and industries alike, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The steps we take today to secure critical minerals like antimony will determine the future of national security, technological innovation, and economic stability.
The question is: will the U.S. act quickly enough to rise to the challenge?
DISCLOSURE
The author may own shares in Military Metals Corp. The author may choose to buy or sell shares at any time without notice. Although efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and seek independent financial advice before making any investment decisions related to the small-cap company mentioned. Adam Giddens, a former CEO and now a director, has been engaged as an Advisor to provide ongoing business support.