In order to solidify the domestic supply chain, US Critical Metals Corporation (USCM) has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with REalloys Incorporated. The move is aimed at advancing rare earth and critical mineral independence in the United States. 

The partnership brings together USCM’s mineral resource base and process technology with REalloys’ downstream and metallisation capabilities. A key aspect of the collaboration includes potential offtake agreements and access to the facility of REalloys in Ohio, which is supported by the US Department of Defense and is equipped for rare earth processing and metal production. 

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The MoU outlines a broader strategic framework as well, containing the possibility of equity participation, joint efforts to secure government funding, and coordinated engagement with policymakers. Together, the companies aim to present a fully domestic heavy rare earth (HREE) supply chain model, with minimal reliance on Chinese inputs at any stage. 

At the centre of USCM’s resource strategy is its Sheep Creek project in Montana, which spans around 334 claims over 11 square miles. The project has reported about 9 per cent rare earth concentrations in total, including key HREE such as dysprosium, terbium and yttrium. It also contains gallium, averaging over 300 ppm, a critical mineral that is widely used in defence and advanced technology applications.

According to the agreement, both companies are to focus on metallurgical test work and refining processing flowsheets for heavy rare earths. Discussions are also expected to progress towards a long-term offtake agreement, with efforts underway to formalise this within a year. 

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Emphasising the importance of the move, Harvey Kaye, Executive Chairman of USCM, commented, "This collaboration represents another important step toward establishing a secure domestic rare earth supply chain.”

“Through the combination of our resource base, our processing technology initiatives, and the capabilities of REalloys and our other strategic partners, we believe US Critical Materials is positioned to play a critical role in helping the United States achieve rare earth independence,” he continued.

In parallel to this, USCM is also developing environmentally sustainable processing technologies in collaboration with Idaho National Laboratory. The focus is on reducing the environmental footprint of rare earth processing while strengthening domestic capabilities.

The agreement reflects a broader push by the US to lower dependence on external sources for critical minerals, especially HREE that are essential for defence, clean energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.

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