The imperative behind domestic supply
In our previous article, “Why Graphite Matters”, we explored the fundamental properties of graphite, its indispensable role in modern technologies—from electric vehicles to energy storage—and why it’s poised to become one of the most critical materials of the 21st century. As the world transitions to a low-carbon economy, graphite’s importance is only growing. But beyond its commercial applications, graphite plays a pivotal role in national defense and security—an angle often overlooked by investors.
Graphite’s role in U.S. defense systems
Graphite is not just a battery material—it’s a strategic asset. In defense applications, graphite is used in:
- Radar-absorbent coatings for stealth technology
- Thermal management systems in high-performance electronics
- Advanced composites for lightweight armor and aerospace components
- Drones and satellites, where weight, conductivity, and durability are critical
- Military-grade lithium-ion batteries, which require high-purity, spherical coated graphite
These applications underscore why the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has identified graphite as a material of strategic importance.
The national security risk of foreign dependence
Currently, the U.S. imports 100 per cent of its natural graphite, with China dominating global supply and processing capacity. This reliance poses a significant vulnerability. In a geopolitical crisis or trade disruption, the U.S. military and defense contractors could face severe shortages of a material essential to mission-critical systems.
Recognizing this risk, the U.S. government has taken action. Through the Defense Production Act (DPA) and other legislative tools, the DoD is investing in domestic supply chains for critical minerals—including graphite. These efforts aim to secure a resilient, U.S.-based source of high-purity graphite for defense and energy applications.
Graphite One Inc.: A strategic asset in the making
Enter Graphite One (TSXV:GPH), a Canadian company with a uniquely American vision. The company’s flagship Graphite One Project is located at the Graphite Creek Property on Alaska’s Seward Peninsula—about 60 kilometers north of Nome. This site hosts the largest known graphite deposit in the United States.
Graphite One’s strategy is to build a vertically integrated supply chain: mining raw graphite, processing it into advanced materials, and manufacturing spherical coated graphite—the exact form required for lithium-ion batteries used in military and aerospace applications.
This alignment with U.S. strategic goals has not gone unnoticed. Graphite One has received support under the DPA and is positioning itself as a key domestic supplier of U.S.-origin graphite for both commercial and defense markets.
Legislation and momentum
Recent U.S. legislation, including the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, has further accelerated investment in domestic critical mineral supply chains. Graphite One stands to benefit from this momentum, especially as the DoD continues to prioritize materials essential to national security.
Looking ahead
Graphite One is more than a mining company—it’s a potential cornerstone of America’s defense and energy future. For investors, this presents a compelling opportunity: a company at the intersection of clean energy, national security, and geopolitical strategy.
Next up: Building North America’s premier graphite supply chain
In the third and final article of this series, we’ll explore how Graphite One is executing its vision to become North America’s leading graphite supplier. We’ll examine the company’s progress, partnerships, and investment potential within the broader industrial and geopolitical landscape.
Graphite One is at the forefront of addressing these challenges by establishing a secure, U.S.-based supply chain for graphite. This initiative is crucial for the clean energy transition, technological advancements, and national security.
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This is sponsored content issued on behalf of Graphite One Inc., please see full disclaimer here.
