News
September 27, 2025
Critical mineral company's Thompson Falls expansion advances after $245M federal contract
The government says China controls about 85% of global antimony production. The Defense Department had been seeking partners to produce more of the mineral to support U.S. security and energy.
**Thompson Falls Expansion Advances After $245M Federal Contract**
Thompson Falls, Montana – A critical mineral company is poised to significantly expand its operations in Thompson Falls following a substantial $245 million federal contract. The investment marks a pivotal step toward bolstering domestic production of antimony, a vital mineral deemed crucial for both national security and energy independence.
Antimony, a metalloid with a range of applications, is primarily used as a flame retardant, particularly in plastics and textiles. It is also a key component in lead-acid batteries, ammunition, and various alloys. The growing demand for antimony in emerging technologies, such as energy storage solutions, further underscores its strategic importance.
Currently, the United States relies heavily on foreign sources for its antimony supply. Government officials have expressed growing concern over this dependence, particularly given that China currently controls an estimated 85% of global antimony production. This concentration of supply raises concerns about potential disruptions and vulnerabilities in the U.S. supply chain.
The Defense Department has been actively seeking partnerships with domestic companies to increase antimony production within the United States. The $245 million contract awarded to the critical mineral company will enable the company to significantly scale up its existing Thompson Falls facility. The expansion is expected to create new jobs in the local community and stimulate economic growth in the region.
The funding will be used to modernize equipment, increase processing capacity, and implement environmentally responsible mining practices. The company has committed to adhering to the highest environmental standards throughout the expansion and operation of the facility.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in the U.S. government's efforts to secure a reliable domestic supply of critical minerals. By reducing reliance on foreign sources, the U.S. aims to strengthen its national security, support its energy sector, and ensure a stable supply chain for essential industries. The Thompson Falls expansion is expected to play a crucial role in achieving these strategic objectives. The project is anticipated to break ground in the coming months, with full-scale production slated to begin within the next few years.
Thompson Falls, Montana – A critical mineral company is poised to significantly expand its operations in Thompson Falls following a substantial $245 million federal contract. The investment marks a pivotal step toward bolstering domestic production of antimony, a vital mineral deemed crucial for both national security and energy independence.
Antimony, a metalloid with a range of applications, is primarily used as a flame retardant, particularly in plastics and textiles. It is also a key component in lead-acid batteries, ammunition, and various alloys. The growing demand for antimony in emerging technologies, such as energy storage solutions, further underscores its strategic importance.
Currently, the United States relies heavily on foreign sources for its antimony supply. Government officials have expressed growing concern over this dependence, particularly given that China currently controls an estimated 85% of global antimony production. This concentration of supply raises concerns about potential disruptions and vulnerabilities in the U.S. supply chain.
The Defense Department has been actively seeking partnerships with domestic companies to increase antimony production within the United States. The $245 million contract awarded to the critical mineral company will enable the company to significantly scale up its existing Thompson Falls facility. The expansion is expected to create new jobs in the local community and stimulate economic growth in the region.
The funding will be used to modernize equipment, increase processing capacity, and implement environmentally responsible mining practices. The company has committed to adhering to the highest environmental standards throughout the expansion and operation of the facility.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in the U.S. government's efforts to secure a reliable domestic supply of critical minerals. By reducing reliance on foreign sources, the U.S. aims to strengthen its national security, support its energy sector, and ensure a stable supply chain for essential industries. The Thompson Falls expansion is expected to play a crucial role in achieving these strategic objectives. The project is anticipated to break ground in the coming months, with full-scale production slated to begin within the next few years.
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