MTM Critical Metals (ASX:MTM) Expands US Reach with Strategic Defence Appointment

Highlights

• MTM brings in US defence specialist to strengthen strategic expansion

• Focus remains on critical mineral recovery using patented FJH technology

• US subsidiary Flash Metals USA targets domestic rare earth supply chain

MTM Critical Metals (ASX:MTM), which is preparing to rebrand as Metallium, has appointed high-profile US defence industry expert Gregory Bowman to its advisory board. The move is part of the company’s broader ambition to advance its critical mineral recovery operations and strengthen its position in key international markets — with particular focus on the United States.

Bowman’s appointment brings a wealth of experience in national security, public-private partnerships, and supply chain management. As a senior figure at Siemens Government Technologies and a former US Army Colonel, his involvement aligns with MTM’s objectives to expand its reach through its US subsidiary, Flash Metals USA.

Focus on Next-Generation Resource Recovery Technology

MTM Critical Metals has developed a proprietary technology known as Flash Joule Heating (FJH), which enables the rapid extraction of valuable elements from unconventional sources. This includes recovery of gallium, germanium, antimony, rare earth elements, and gold from feedstocks such as e-waste and refinery by-products.

The technology offers a low-impact alternative to traditional mining, supporting sustainability and circular economy goals. With increasing demand for secure, domestic sources of rare earths, especially in the defence and electronics sectors, the FJH process provides a solution to growing global concerns around critical mineral availability.

By leveraging its innovative approach, MTM aims to play a role in transforming the resource sector — turning waste into high-value inputs through scalable technology. Bowman’s defence sector insight is expected to support the application of this technology in sensitive and security-focused environments, particularly where supply chain resilience is a top priority.

US Defence Market Identified as Key Strategic Target

The US defence sector represents a vital area of interest for MTM, particularly in the context of rare earth recovery. With the appointment of Bowman, Flash Metals USA is set to focus on aligning its capabilities with federal and industrial needs in the United States.

MTM’s technology has the to contribute to reducing dependence on international suppliers by establishing domestic sources of critical materials from secondary inputs. This aligns with broader shifts aimed at enhancing national security through localised resource access and innovative recycling methods.

Bowman’s background, including over two decades of service in strategic roles in the military, is expected to guide Flash Metals USA in navigating regulatory frameworks and forming high-level industry collaborations. His expertise could accelerate the company’s progress in entering specialised markets where material traceability, reliability, and security are non-negotiable.

Positioning in the Global Critical Metals Landscape

While MTM Critical Metals is not currently included in, its focus on technology-driven resource solutions puts it in an evolving segment of the market that is attracting attention. The global demand for critical minerals continues to grow, and companies offering environmentally sustainable alternatives to traditional extraction are becoming more prominent.

MTM’s decision to appoint a recognised figure in the defence and national security domain underscores its intent to establish a strong foundation in markets with long-term demand for rare earths and strategic minerals. By expanding its leadership with specialised expertise and focusing on value recovery from overlooked sources, the company is positioning itself to contribute meaningfully to supply chain transformation.

As geopolitical and industrial needs evolve, the relevance of technologies like FJH and strategies that prioritise secondary resource streams are expected to play a growing role. MTM’s latest move reflects an effort to align with these global priorities, targeting both innovation and strategic partnerships in key regions.