U.S. and Australia Forge $3 Billion Critical Minerals Partnership Amid Supply Chain Pressures
The United States and Australia have committed $3 billion to critical minerals projects, with the U.S. Department of Defense investing in a gallium refinery in Western Australia. This strategic move comes as China restricts exports of minerals vital for electronics and defense technologies. Australia has also reportedly agreed to purchase $1.2 billion in autonomous underwater vehicles from defense startup Anduril.
Strategic Minerals Partnership Announced
President Donald Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have signed a significant agreement to bolster critical minerals supply chains, according to reports. The partnership will see both nations contribute a combined $3 billion to critical minerals projects over the next six months, with the total project pipeline valued at $8.5 billion, sources indicate.