LMT · News · 20260805N

Export Controls / Regulatory Risk

LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP · 2026-08-05 · Importance 34 · Surprise 42

Lockheed Martin signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with NioCorp Developments for the potential purchase of up to 15 tonnes of scandium oxide annually for 10 years. The proposed supply would come from NioCorp’s Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project in Nebraska, which is planned to produce approximately 100 tonnes of scandium oxide annually once financed and constructed. The arrangement is intended to establish a U.S. domestic supply source for defense materials and reduce reliance on foreign producers, particularly China, amid export controls on critical aerospace metals.

Key facts

• Reports note the MOU aims to establish a domestic scandium supply chain in the U.S. to reduce reliance on foreign sources, specifically China. source