US aerospace and defence sectors work to reduce critical mineral supply risks
The US Aerospace Industries Association cites limited domestic supply and processing capacity remain major barriers.
The trade body’s latest report finds that domestic aerospace and defence companies are stepping up efforts to secure alternative supplies of critical minerals. Companies are carrying out more detailed supply chain mapping, reviewing material specifications and setting up dedicated critical minerals teams.
However, finding alternative suppliers is not straightforward. Aerospace applications often require high-purity, tightly specified materials, while suitable mineral deposits, processing and refining capacity remain limited. New materials and suppliers must also go through lengthy qualification and certification processes before they can be used.
The association says these timescales can extend beyond current US regulatory deadlines for reducing reliance on adversarial sources. Without greater flexibility, it warns that restrictions could increase costs, delay production, or disrupt the supply of aerospace-grade materials.
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