Highlights
IperionX (ASX:IPX) secures phase three SBIR contract with the US Department of Defense
Titanium parts to be manufactured at IperionX’s Virginia-based campus
Contract supports reshoring an all-American titanium supply network
IperionX (ASX:IPX), listed on the ASX 200 index, operates in the titanium and critical materials sector. The company has secured a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) phase three contract with the United States Department of Defense (DoD). This strategic move is intended to support the US government's initiative to strengthen domestic supply chains for advanced materials, particularly titanium.
The SBIR phase three designation enables federal agencies to directly purchase commercially viable technologies without requiring additional competition. This new arrangement provides a long-term channel for qualifying US government bodies to place task-specific orders for titanium components manufactured by IperionX.
Titanium Manufacturing Begins in Virginia
IperionX will manufacture the titanium parts at its Titanium Manufacturing Campus located in Virginia. These parts will initially include titanium fasteners and are expected to be produced using the company’s patented production and forging technologies. Over time, project task orders could extend to include a wider range of titanium products, including high-value components for aerospace and defense use.
The company confirmed it is currently collaborating with DoD agencies to begin projects under this framework. Initial manufacturing and supply projects are anticipated to commence shortly, drawing on the established ceiling of the awarded contract.
Technology Validation and Strategic Support
Chief Executive Anastasios Arima emphasized that securing this phase three contract highlights the capabilities of IperionX’s patented titanium technologies. It also reflects ongoing efforts by the US government to ensure a secure and domestically sourced titanium supply chain. Titanium’s durability, corrosion resistance, and favorable strength-to-weight ratio make it a vital material in both commercial and military applications.
IperionX is positioned as a US-based titanium metal and critical materials company, utilizing innovative production technologies to transform titanium minerals and scrap into high-performance alloys. These capabilities align with federal goals for sustainable and secure material sourcing in defense manufacturing.
Growing Role of Titanium in Defense Applications
According to industry insights, titanium continues to gain traction across defense and military sectors. Its structural benefits make it suitable for vehicles, aircraft, and mission-critical infrastructure. In addition to its use in defense, titanium is valued in sectors like power generation, automotive, medical devices, and industrial machinery due to its resilience and lightweight properties.
IperionX’s inclusion in this SBIR program and its focus on titanium innovation further underline the growing demand for advanced material solutions. The titanium market has experienced expansion driven by technological innovation and industrial growth, and IperionX appears aligned with this broader material evolution.