A Hidden Treasure: South Korea's Tungsten Boost for U. S. Defense

Deep in the mountains of South Korea, a long-forgotten mine is making a comeback. The Sangdong mine, once shut down over three decades ago, is now back in action, and it's a big deal for the U. S. This mine is packed with tungsten, a super tough metal that can handle extreme heat. It's crucial for making things like tanks, fighter jets, and even smart missiles. Why is this important? Well, China has been the main supplier of tungsten and other rare minerals for a long time. During a recent trade war, China hinted that it could cut off supplies, which would be a huge problem for the U. S. So, the U. S. is looking for other sources to make sure it has enough of these critical minerals.The company behind this reopening, Almonty Industries, is confident they can meet the U. S. 's needs. They've even guaranteed a supply to the White House. This isn't the first time tungsten has played a key role in warfare. During World War II, Allied countries tried to stop tungsten from reaching Nazi Germany. The U. S. has also been exploring other options, like a minerals deal with Ukraine. This deal involves developing oil, gas, and mineral projects in Ukraine, with the U. S. providing financial or military assistance in return. Back at the Sangdong mine, workers are busy extracting tungsten from the rock. It's a complex process, but one that could significantly boost the U. S. 's defense capabilities. The mine's reopening is a strategic move, ensuring that the U. S. has a reliable source of this critical mineral.