US Antimony Independence at Risk Until Locksley Proves Commercial Scale
Locksley Resources has produced the first 100% American made antimony ingot in decades, validating a fully domestic mine-to-metal supply chain and advancing U.S. critical minerals independence.
- First US domestic antimony ingot produced from Mojave Desert ore
- Fully American mine-to-metal supply chain independent of Chinese processing
- Supports US government initiatives for critical minerals in defense and manufacturing
- Advancing pilot-scale production to confirm scalability and commercial supply
- Strategic collaboration with Washington advisors and Australian government engagement
A Historic Milestone for US Critical Minerals
Locksley Resources Limited (ASX, LKY) has announced a landmark achievement with the production of the first 100% American made antimony ingot in decades. This breakthrough validates a fully domestic mine-to-metal supply chain, sourcing ore from its Mojave Desert Antimony Mine in California and refining it entirely within the United States at Hazen Research Inc. in Colorado. The milestone marks a significant step toward re-establishing US self-sufficiency in a critical mineral long dominated by foreign supply chains, particularly China.
Strategic Importance of Antimony
Antimony is a vital mineral used in defense systems, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing alloys. The US currently lacks domestic production, relying heavily on imports. Locksley’s success aligns with recent US government and Presidential Executive Orders aimed at securing critical mineral supply chains essential for national security and clean energy technologies. By demonstrating a complete American mine-to-metal process, Locksley positions itself as a pioneer in rebuilding this strategic supply chain.
From Proof-of-Concept to Pilot Scale
Having proven the concept, Locksley is now advancing toward pilot-scale production to validate metallurgical recoveries, process efficiencies, and scalability. This phase will ensure that product specifications meet stringent US defense and industrial standards, supporting offtake readiness and commercial qualification. The company is working closely with strategic partners and Washington-based advisors, including GreenMet, to secure permitting and funding necessary for commercialisation.
Geopolitical and Bilateral Context
This milestone coincides with heightened US-Australia collaboration on critical minerals, underscored by Prime Minister Albanese’s visit to Washington for talks with President Trump. Both nations are prioritizing secure, allied supply chains for minerals like antimony. Locksley’s Mojave Project, with one of the few high-grade antimony deposits in the continental US, offers a strategic alternative to Chinese-controlled supply chains, reinforcing the trans-Pacific effort to strengthen mineral independence.
Looking Ahead
Locksley’s next steps include scaling up to a US-based pilot plant, refining processing parameters, and engaging with government and industrial partners to advance funding and strategic collaborations. The company aims to establish a fully integrated American-controlled antimony production capability, supporting defense and industrial sectors. This achievement not only advances Locksley’s commercial ambitions but also signals a broader shift in critical mineral supply dynamics.
Bottom Line?
Locksley’s breakthrough sets the stage for a new era of US critical mineral independence, but scaling and commercial viability remain the next big tests.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly can Locksley scale pilot production to commercial volumes?
- What level of government funding and support will Locksley secure?
- How will Locksley’s supply chain compete with established global producers, especially China?
