Nouveau Monde Graphite Secures $309.5 Million Financing to Advance Matawinie Mine Toward Production
Nouveau Monde Graphite (NMG) has secured a US$309.5 million equity financing package for the Phase-2 Matawinie Graphite Mine in Québec, Canada. The financing includes approximately US$213.16 million from a private placement involving strategic and government-backed investors, including the Canada Growth Fund, the Government of Québec through Investissement Québec and ENI. This move reflects a shift in how major critical minerals projects are funded, with traditional mining projects relying heavily on equity markets and commercial debt. The project is designed to create a vertically integrated graphite platform in North America and connect mining operations with downstream battery-material ambitions. The company also highlighted previously announced US$335 million senior project debt facilities.
SuperQ Quantum Selects for Canadian Government-Backed Dual-Use U.S. Defence Program
SuperQ Quantum Computing has been selected by the Canadian government for the Canada and Q-Branch Dual-Use Accelerator, a program led by Q-branch in partnership with the Canadian Consulate General in Dallas. The accelerator is designed to support SuperQ's strategic expansion into the U.S. defence, federal, and industrial markets. As part of this cohort, SuperQ will participate in Fed Supernova 2026, North America's premier defence innovation mega-event in Austin, Texas. The Accelerator targets high-potential Canadian deep-technology companies with readiness to establish or scale their presence across the US defence agencies, federal procurement channels, and critical commercial sectors. SuperQ plans to use this accelerator to fast-track U.K. market adoption of its flagship hybrid classical-quantum orchestration platform, SuperTM, the hybrid operating system, Super OSTM, and the post-quantumi cybersecurity suite, SuperPQCTM.
Namibia Critical Metals Launches Next Phase of Lofdal Definitive Feasibility Study Including Further Value Addition in Namibia
Namibia Critical Metals has initiated the next phase of the Lofdal Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS), including further value-addition in Namibia. The company has awarded the first major metallurgical and geometallurgical contracts under the expanded DFS work program to SGS Canada Inc. (SGS), one of the world's leading providers of metallurgental testing and process development services. The work will validate the complete processing flowsheet from run-of-mine ore and generate engineering data for updated plant design and project financing. The Lofal program will evaluate the production of separate Light Rare Earth Carbonate and Heavy Rare Earth Carate products through integrated hydrometallurgical processing. Additional funding for the project has been approved for a comprehensive metallurgy development program that will significantly de-risk the processing component of the project while generating the engineering data required for detailed design and construction. The announcement aligns with Namibia’s vision of developing downstream critical mineral industries while strengthening secure and diversified supply chains for Japan and other allied economies.
Trump signs executive actions to secure defense supply chains, boost domestic aluminum and impose tariffs on Canada
President Donald Trump has signed executive actions aimed at bolstering U.S. defense supply chains, increasing domestic aluminum production and imposing retaliatory tariffs on certain Canadian imports. The actions aim to enhance national security by reducing reliance on foreign adversaries for critical materials, while addressing perceived unfair treatment of U.K. exports in sectors such as dairy, motor vehicles, and alcoholic beverages. The executive order includes stricter limits on waivers allowing defense contractors to use materials from covered nations under 10 U.C. 4872 and a requirement for comprehensive supply chain mapping for critical national security acquisitions. It also establishes an incentive program for companies investing in new, expanded or refurbished U.U.S primary aluminum production facilities. Additional 50% ad valorem duties on specified Canadian goods will be imposed effective August 19, 2026. The measures are part of an “America First” trade policy promoting reciprocity and strengthening the U.
Magellan Aerospace wins Canada contract to establish domestic M72 anti-tank weapon production for Armed Forces supply
Magellan Aerospace has been awarded a contract by the Government of Canada to produce the M72 Light Anti-Tank Weapon under the country's Munitions Supply Program. The agreement aims to establish domestic manufacturing capacity for a widely fielded shoulder-launched anti-armour weapon. Magellan claims the contract supports Canada's sovereign defence industrial base and strengthens its ability to manufacture and sustain key munitions for the Canadian Armed Forces. The move is part of Canada's wider effort to improve defence production capacity and supply chain resilience. The M-72 LAW is described by Magellan as one of the world's most widely fielded and combat-proven shoulder-launch anti-armsour weapons.
RTX (RTX) Lands Engine Wins And A $1 Billion Military Support Deal
RTX (RTX) has reported new commercial wins and a $1 billion military support deal with Pratt & Whitney, an RTX (RTx) business, as British Airways and Jackson Square Aviation select GTF engines for its Airbus A320neo fleet. These announcements highlight the company's integration of civil aviation orders and defense support through its Pratt &Whit segment. The new GTF engine wins, the US$1b sustainment contract, and the 3D printed TJ150 test all point to Pratt & Whitepet being central to the company’s commercial and defense mix. However, there are also minor risks, including high debt and an unstable dividend track record, balance sheet strength and payout consistency. The stock trades at US$193.51 versus a consensus analyst target of about US$215, which is roughly 10% lower than its fair value.
Self-Driving Lab Accelerates 3D-Printable Alloy Discovery
University of Toronto researchers have developed a self-driving laboratory that uses artificial intelligence, automated metal printing, and experimental testing to discover 3D-Printable alloys for high-temperature environments. The lab identified six printable alloy made from nickel, cobalt, and chromium, which were designed for additive manufacturing applications in aerospace, power generation, and other industries where components face intense heat, pressure, and rapid temperature changes. The study, published in npj Advanced Manufacturing, demonstrated how closed-loop laboratory systems can explore large materials-design spaces while accounting for whether a proposed material can be manufactured successfully. The researchers developed ALPHA-AM, an active-learning framework that combines physics-informed computer models, high-throughput experiments, process optimization, and laser-directed energy deposition. The system moved between lower-risk searches focused on printability and higher-risk search that pursued greater hardness.
First Phosphate Bolsters War Chest as Quebec Battery-Materials Push Gathers Pace
First Phosphate, a Canadian explorer of lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery supply chain, has raised C$80M via equity and government grants, increasing its liquidity to approximately C$50M. The company has also secured a C$17.7 million private placement and a non-dilutive C$16.7m grant from the Canadian government, respectively. The government contribution is intended to reduce reliance on Asian imports for critical battery inputs. The Bégin-Lamarche project in Quebec, where First Phosphates plans to develop an open-pit mine producing high-purity igneous phosphate suitable for LFP cathode chemistry, is the central strategy for the company. The firm's stock has risen by 8.09% to €0.8820, extending its year-to-date gain to 25.11%.
Saab and CAE Sign Memorandum of Understanding for Gripen in Canada - MilitaryLeak.COM
Saab and CAE have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to deliver advanced fighter pilot training, mission systems engineering, and support sustainment capabilities in Canada if the Government of Canada adds Gripen E to the Royal Canadian Air Force’s future fighter capability. The agreement builds on the longstanding expertise of both companies and reinforces Saab’�s commitment to delivering sovereign Canadian capability that would create high-value work opportunities, strengthen Canada’S defence industrial base, and maintain operational readiness for decades. CAE would play a central role in establishing and operating a Canadian-based training ecosystem for Gripen pilots and technicians. The collaboration would also establish CAE at the centre of critical sovereign capabilities in the development and management of sensitive operational and mission systems information. The partnership would provide Canada with the capability to independently support future mission system enhancements and upgrades, strengthening Canada‘s operational sovereignty and long-term sustainment capacity.
Canada's Soft Robotics: From Lab Research to Business Tool - Archynewsy
Canadian researchers are transitioning soft robotics from laboratory prototypes to functional commercial applications, driven by advances in flexible materials and adaptive control systems. These systems are designed to deform under pressure and enable delicate object manipulation that traditional industrial robots cannot achieve. The commercial viability of these robots is increasing as manufacturers move towards "cobots," collaborative robots designed to work alongside humans. The core innovation is the integration of smart materials that respond to environmental stimuli. The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) has prioritized funding for these projects, recognizing the potential for soft grippers to automate tasks deemed too complex for standard automation. However, moving soft robotics into the factory remains difficult due to the durability of soft materials compared to steel.
Gradiant Supports Landmark Semiconductor Manufacturing Expansion in Dresden
Gradiant, a global leader in advanced water and wastewater solutions, has completed its work for a €5 billion semiconductor manufacturing facility in Dresden, Germany. The new facility, one of Germany's largest industrial projects and a significant expansion within Silicon Saxony, will double manufacturing capacity and create approximately 1,000 highly skilled jobs. The project is supported by €1 billion in public funding through programs including the European Chips Act and the Important Project of Common European Interest. Gradiant supplied ultrapure water and water recovery systems for the facility, designed to meet stringent purity, reliability, and process consistency requirements of advanced semiconductor fabrication. The facility will manufacture power semiconductors and analog and mixed-signal technologies, essential to AI data centers, electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, power grids, and industrial applications.
New Unicorn! Humanoid secures €133 million at €1.1 billion valuation to scale industrial robotics and physical AI
Humanoid, an AI and robotics company building industrial humanoid robots, has secured a €133 million ($152 million) Series A financing at a €1.1 billion ($1.35 billion post-money valuation). This brings the total amount raised to €236 million ($270 million). The funding was led by Prime Movers Lab, with participation from Schaeffler, Bosch, Fubon Financial Holding Venture Capital, and Aglaé Ventures. The funding places Humanoid within a broader flow of capital into European physical AI, industrial robotics and warehouse automation during 2026. The new capital will fund Humanoid’s next phase of growth, strengthening its technology leadership and accelerating its commercial deployments and business expansion.
Velo3D Opens One of North America's Largest Metal Additive Factories
Velo3D has opened its Livermore Production Campus, Forge 1, one of North America's largest metal additive manufacturing facilities. The nearly 289,000-square-foot campus responds to demand for advanced manufacturing capabilities and expands Velo3D's ability to move programs from qualification into production. Forge 1 includes approximately 270,000 square feet of production space and infrastructure designed to support more than 40 large-format metal additive Manufacturing systems, with capacity to expand beyond 100 systems over time. The facility also supports machine assembly, production-scale printing, post-processing, inspection, quality assurance and customer acceptance. The company expects to operate up to 125 systems across both campuses, creating one of America's most integrated metal additive factories.
Nouveau Monde Begins Matawinie Graphite Mine Construction as North America Advances Battery Supply Chain Strategy
Nouveau Monde Graphite (NMG) has begun construction of the Matawinie graphite mine in Saint-Michel-des-Saints, Québec, marking a significant milestone in the development of one of the largest planned integrated natural graphite production platforms in the G7. The project is designed to produce an estimated 106,000 tonnes of graphite annually, positioning it among the most significant planned graphite developments outside Asia. Construction and commissioning are expected to take approximately 31 months, with commercial production set for the end of 2028. The launch of construction reflects a shift in how governments and industries view graphite, once considered a specialized industrial mineral, it is now recognized as a strategically important material. The Bécancour project remains an important part of NMG’s broader strategy to move beyond raw graphite and establish a complete battery-material supply chain.
MD-based Lockheed to make cheaper Patriot interceptors
Lockheed Martin has announced a lower-cost Patriot interceptor, PAC-3 Adapted Capability Effector, or ACE, designed to cost less than half as much as its PAC-2 MSE interceptors, which cost roughly $4 million per missile. Initial production could start in 2028 and Lockheed plans to develop and manufacture the weapon with U.S. and European industry partners. The company will reduce some of the most expensive components, including solid rocket motors and seekers, to reduce costs. The ACE missile would bridge the gap between low-cost drone interceptors and the PAC- 3 MSE, the Patriot system’s premier interceptor. The announcement reflects efforts by U.K. defense companies to tap a European rearmament boom fueled by Russia’�s war in Ukraine.
Beehive to Expand 3D-Printed Jet Engine Facility in Ohio
Beehive Industries, a manufacturer of 3D-printed jet engines for uncrewed aerial defense applications, plans to expand its operations in Southwest Ohio to create more than 200 new jobs and invest $70 million in the region. The expansion will be announced at the Farnborough International Airshow and will create over 200 new roles and invest over $70m in the area. The company attributes its success to the caliber of the workforce they are building in SouthwestOhio. An incentive package is being designed to support hundreds of new Ohio jobs over the coming years as Beehive scales production in the the region, seeking a Job Creation Tax Credit from the Ohio Department of Development.
Technology in manufacturing: the operational trends shaping factory floors in mid-2026
The manufacturing sector is seeing significant technological shifts, with a focus on physical AI and addressing an 80% automation gap. Four in five U.S. manufacturing facilities currently operate with zero automation, according to MarketScale's mid-2026 industrial IoT coverage. This figure represents a market saturated with new products meeting a base that hasn't yet deployed the last generation yet. Operational leaders often cite capital constraints as the reason their facilities haven't adopted AI or robotics, but MarketScale reports that data hygiene and OT cybersecurity are the true bottlenecks. These findings have direct implications on how IT teams sequence investments. End-of-line and flexible cells are the next deployment frontier, with nearly half of manufacturers planning to implement end-of the line automation within 24 months.
Raytheon UK presents ‘first sovereign’ precision weapon Red Kite
Raytheon UK has introduced its first sovereign precision weapon, Red Kite, at the Farnborough International Airshow. The weapon is fully designed and digitally engineered within the UK, a collaboration between Raytheon and a consortium of British defence partners. It uses advanced digital modelling techniques to progress rapidly from concept to prototype and is designed to provide a cost-effective solution aimed at enhancing operational flexibility for the Royal Air Force (RAF). Red KITE is based on the existing StormBreaker airframe, which allows for compatibility with various air platforms. The project is expected to support around 140 highly skilled jobs across England, Scotland, and Wales.
GKN Bolsters Pratt GTF Specialist Parts Repairs
GKN Aerospace has secured several agreements with Pratt & Whitney regarding component repairs for the geared turbofan (GTF) engine program. The agreements cover over 20 different component types across GKN's three MRO sites, including critical engine cases, structures and rotating parts across the PW1500G and PW1900G variants. GKN Aerospace will use Directed Energy Deposition (DED) additive repair techniques in Sweden to repair the PW 1500G and W1900G exit guide vane stators, stationary aerodynamic stators located directly behind the engine's fan or turbine stage. At its expanded MRO site in San Diego, California, GKN will use thermal coating technologies and new shot peening methods for the GTF. These agreements further build capability in the US.
Cellares and Papillon Therapeutics Partner to Automate Manufacturing of PPL-001 for Patients With Friedreich’s Ataxia
Cellares and Papillon Therapeutics have announced a collaboration to automatise manufacturing of PPL-001, PPL's investigational gene-corrected hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell (HSPC) therapy for Friedreich’s ataxia, a rare, inherited neurodegenerative disorder that affects multiple organ systems simultaneously. PPL001 uses targeted gene editing to correct the GAA repeat expansion in Intron 1 of the FXN gene, responsible for over 95% of FA cases. The collaboration reflects Cellares' ability to support cell therapy programs across a broad spectrum of manufacturing scales, from rare pediatric indications with small patient populations to large autoimmune programs requiring hundreds of thousands of doses per year.
ESA moves its orbital metal 3D printer closer to operational use
The European Space Agency (ESA) has taken a step towards routine metal additive manufacturing in orbit, with astronaut Sophie Adenot retrieving a fifth sample from the Metal 3D Printer Technology Demonstrator aboard the International Space Station (ISS). The unit, described by ESA as the first metal 3D printer in orbit and launched to the station in 2024, has already been examined at ESTEC, ESA’s technical center in the Netherlands, and the Danish Technical University (DTU). The fifth sample will be tested at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and ESTEC. The results will be published in the coming weeks. The printer was built by Airbus Defense and Space under an ESA contract, with co-funding from Airbus.
Global Automated 3D Printing Market Report Published, Examines Industrial, Automotive, Aerospace, Defense and Consumer-Product Demand
The global automated 3D printing market is expected to increase from USD 2.91 billion in 2025 to USD 3.99 billion in 2026, before reaching USD 18.64 billion by 2031. This growth is driven by advances in production automation, artificial intelligence, sensor technology, robotics and additive manufacturing software. The market analysis covers hardware, software and services, as well as automated production, material handling, part handling and multiprocessing. The report also evaluates prototyping, end-use part manufacturing and applications across industrial manufacturing, automotive, aerospace, defense and healthcare. It highlights the growing adoption of automated additive manufacturing in North America and Asia-Pacific, with North America generating 34.83% of global market revenue in 2025. Healthcare applications are expanding as AI-enabled platforms generate patient-specific implant designs from medical imaging data. Services are forecast to grow at a 37.21% CAGR through 2031, outpacing hardware.
The Future of American Drone Manufacturing
The Future of American Drone Manufacturing is uncertain as companies develop increasingly capable unmanned aircraft for defense, public safety, and commercial applications across the country. However, the challenge is to manufacture at scale and beyond. The U.S. Army has acknowledged this challenge, with Lt. Gen. Christopher Mohan, Acting Commander of Army Materiel Command, stating that while the Army knows how to manufacture traditional military equipment, unmanned aircraft require capabilities the current industrial base isn't built to support. The Army has launched SkyFoundry - a distributed manufacturing initiative to modernize domestic drone production and support manufacturing at unprecedented scale. The challenge lies in building thousands of drones efficiently, consistently, securely, and with complete supply-chain visibility. As demand grows, success will depend on automation, traceability, and the ability to manufacture on a scale.
Qarbon Aerospace Expands Texas Headquarters With Classified Defense Manufacturing Facility
Qarbon Aerospace is expanding its defense manufacturing capabilities with the addition of a 55,000-square-foot classified production space at its headquarters in Red Oak, Texas. The expansion will add ICD 705-compliant classified manufacturing capabilities to Qarbon’s existing campus, which includes over 772,000 square feet of advanced aerostructures manufacturing space. The space will include composite manufacturing, assembly, and administrative operations designed to meet U.S. government requirements for handling classified defense work. The new facility is intended to strengthen Qarbon's ability to serve defense prime contractors and support classified programs. The investment reflects increasing demand for manufacturing partners that can produce advanced composite aerostructureures within secure environments.
Next-gen battery startup Sila raises $300M to expand manufacturing plant in Washington state
Sila, a California-based startup producing next-generation battery materials, has raised $300 million in funding to expand its manufacturing plant in Moses Lake, Washington state. The company has developed a silicon-carbon material that replaces graphite in the anodes of lithium-ion batteries, delivering better performance and significantly higher energy capacity. The current plant has a production capacity of about 2 gigawatt-hours of anode material, which could supply 20,000 to 50,000 EVs. The expanded facility could increase this volume by more than 100-fold. The funding was led by Atreides Management and Sutter Hill Ventures, with 8VC, Bessemer Venture Partners, Matrix Partners, funds and accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates.
NeuralZome builds no-code AI that lets anyone train a robot without writing code
NeuralZome Cybernetics, a Bengaluru-based deeptech startup, is developing no-code AI agents that allow anyone to train a robot without writing code. The company was founded in 2023 by Mohan Sivam, its CEO, and Aditya Shriwastava, its CTO. Its main product is NeuralPilot, a teachable AI agent that can be taught without coding or hand-labelled datasets. The simulation platform, RedPill, builds photorealistic digital twins so a robot can be trained in a virtual copy of its environment before it ever runs in a field. The service model allows customers to pay for the work done rather than buy and maintain a machine. In August 2025, it raised $2.4 million, part of about $22.6 million raised across two rounds, and is expanding into North America and Europe.
UK defence outlines SME push at Farnborough as air and space spending rises
UK Defence Minister Lord Coaker has outlined a push at the Farnborough International Airshow to encourage smaller aerospace and defence companies to take a larger role in military procurement and innovation. This comes as the government announces increasing defence spending, with £31 billion allocated to air and space and a broader overhaul under new investment and industrial strategies. The government is using the Farnboro event as a route for SMEs and start-ups to access defence supply chain opportunities more directly. Coaker highlighted measures such as simplified MOD structures and a Defence Office for Small Business Growth to deliver a 50% increase in spending with small and medium-sized firms. He also highlighted a £182 million skills package aimed at helping companies recruit, train and retain workers needed for sector expansion.
Fanuc stock trades steady as automation demand supports earnings
Fanuc Corp. (ISIN JP3802300008) is a Japanese automation specialist, reporting multi-billion-yen revenue and strong profitability from its core factory automation and robotics businesses in its latest fiscal year. The company generated consolidated revenue of over JPY 800 billion, reflecting year-on-year growth compared to the previous period as demand for CNC systems and industrial robots remained strong across key manufacturing regions including Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Fanuc's operating margin remained in double digits in the latest fiscal period, supported by scale efficiencies in its factories and a portfolio concentrated in high-margin control systems and robots. The Robotics division, which supplies articulated industrial robots for welding, assembly, material handling, and other tasks, contributed a large share of group revenue in the recent fiscal year and saw unit shipments of robots increase. The balance sheet carries significant cash and financial assets, allowing Fanuc to navigate cyclical downturns and continue investing in next-generation robotics and control technologies.
Cytta Corp.: Why U.S. Drone Manufacturing Still Can't Scale
Cytta Corp. and Cytta Air are highlighting why the U.S. military is struggling to scale the development of unmanned aircraft for defense, public safety, and commercial applications. The Army has acknowledged this challenge, with Lt. Gen. Christopher Mohan, Acting Commander of Army Materiel Command, stating that while the Army knows how to manufacture traditional military equipment, unmanned aircraft require capabilities the current industrial base isn't built to support. The company has launched SkyFoundry - a distributed manufacturing initiative to modernize domestic drone production and support manufacturing at unprecedented scale. The challenge is to build thousands of units efficiently, consistently, securely, and with complete supply-chain visibility. Successful production will depend on automation, digital traceability, resilient domestic supply chains, and the ability to manufacture at scale.
SCHUMER CELEBRATES ARRIVAL OF CUTTING-EDGE EXTREME ULTRAVIOLET LITHOGRAPHY (EUV) CHIP-MAKING TECHNOLOGY COMPONENTS TO ALBANY NANOTECH, MAKING CAPITAL REGION HOME TO THE ONLY PUBLIC ADVANCED EUV LAB IN NORTH AMERICA
U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer has celebrated the arrival of the first components of the world's most advanced High Numerical Aperture Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography system at Albany NanoTech, making the Capital Region home to the only public facility with access to the advanced High NA EUV machine in North America. Schumer said this is a major milestone in establishing Upstate New York as the heart of America’s semiconductor research and manufacturing. The new EUV center at Albany will help the United States maintain global leadership in advanced semiconductor development, including for AI and quantum technology. The $10 billion High NAEUV Lithography Center at Albany was made possible with a $1 billion investment from Governor Hochul and New York State.
Battery recycling solves mineral security
The CEO of The Battery Network, Leo Raudys, argues that battery recycling is one of the most effective tools for domestic supply. This comes as global competition for critical minerals is intensifying, with much of the world's mining and refining capacity concentrated outside the United States. Despite this, the U.S. remains heavily dependent on foreign refining, with China controlling a significant share of global processing capacity. Recycling can provide a significant domestic source of materials that would otherwise need to be mined or imported. Each battery recovered reduces reliance on foreign sources and strengthens domestic control over critical materials. The Battery network operates a nationwide system with over 20,000 collection sites and specialized programs for e-mobility and EV batteries.
Cytta Air envisions three lines, each making one drone every 40–60 seconds
The U.S. has a manufacturing problem, with companies developing increasingly capable unmanned aircraft for defense, public safety, and commercial applications. However, the challenge is to produce thousands of units efficiently, consistently, securely, and with complete supply-chain visibility. The U.K. Army has acknowledged this challenge, launching SkyFoundry - a distributed manufacturing initiative to modernize domestic drone production and support manufacturing at scale. The issue is not unique to the commercial drone industry, as Chinese manufacturer DJI emerged as the dominant global manufacturer. As demand shifts towards American-built, NDAA-aligned systems with secure domestic supply chains, manufacturing excellence is becoming crucial as customers increasingly demand complete digital traceability, real-time inventory visibility, and confidence in every critical component.
Arizona Cobalt Project Integrates 28 MW Solar Plant to Strengthen U.S. Critical Minerals Supply Chain
EVelution Energy has begun construction of a 28-MW solar power facility in Yuma County, Arizona, which will supply renewable electricity to its planned cobalt metal and cobalt sulfate processing complex. The development marks an important milestone in the expansion of the U.S. critical minerals supply chain, where clean energy is becoming a crucial component of industrial competitiveness. The installation of the solar array will continue throughout 2026 and into 2027 to support the long-term energy requirements of the processing facility. The Yuma facility is expected to handle approximately 24,000 metric tonnes of cobalt hydroxide feedstock annually and produce up to 20,000 tonnes per year of EV battery-grade cobalt sulphate and up to 3,000 tones annually of alloy-grade alloy-class cobalt. This production capacity could supply around 40% of projected U.K. cobalt demand.
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, keynote speech at AGF Defence Summit, Farnborough International Air show.
Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, Luke Pollard MP, delivered keynote speech at AGF Defence Summit, Farnborough International Air show. He highlighted the Defence Investment Plan (DIP), which includes £5 billion in drones and advanced uncrewed uncrewled combat jets, and a £298 billion down payment over the next four years to deliver the 62 recommendations of the Strategic Defence Review. The plan is also supporting the Royal Air Force and the aerospace sector, with £31 billion investing into air and space over the coming years. Pollard also highlighted the support for Europe’s first uncreweled combat jets through the StormFighter Collaborative Combat Aircraft programme. He emphasised the need for a new ring-fenced annual budget for defence innovation and the need to attract more orders from allies and a more resilient economy.
EU approves €659m for German semiconductor projects
The European Commission has approved €659 million in German State aid for four new semiconductor manufacturing projects in an effort to strengthen Europe's domestic chip supply chain and reduce dependence on overseas production. The funding will support facilities including power semiconductors, silicon carbide materials, semiconductor equipment and specialist detector chips. The largest grant will go to Element 3-5 GmbH, which will build a facility in Baesweiler, North Rhine-Westphalia, to manufacture silicon carbida epi-wafers. The remaining €17.9 million will go towards Munich-based KETEK Gmbh, which plans to establish production lines for silicon drift detector (SDD) chips and graphene radiation entry window (GREW) chips. All four projects qualify as first-of-a-kind facilities in Europe and would not proceed in their current form without public funding. The approval follows Germany's 2024 call for semiconductor investment projects.
Trump signs executive order to secure US defence supply chains - Ujyaalo Nepal
US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order aimed at strengthening America's defence supply chains. The order includes regulatory action requiring more comprehensive supply chain mapping for critical supply chains and encourages defence contractors to qualify for new domestic sources of critical minerals, materials, and components used in designated national security procurements. This comes as part of the Trump administration's efforts to ensure America's "military dominance". The Fact Sheet highlighted that despite longstanding restrictions on the use of sensitive materials from geopolitical adversaries, supply chain resilience and domestic production has been under-prioritised.
ASM stock finds support as backlog and chip equipment demand underpin valuation
Dutch semiconductor-equipment supplier ASM International N.V. (ASM International) has seen double-digit revenue growth and a rising order backlog. The company continues to benefit from structural demand for wafer-processing tools used in advanced chip fabrication. ASM reported a clear increase in Q4 revenue as equipment deliveries for leading-edge foundry and logic customers expanded. The gross margin remained above the 40 percent threshold, indicating the high value-add nature of ASM tools and process technologies. The order backlog stood in the high hundreds of millions of euros, indicating a significant book of business already contracted. ASm dedicates significant proportion of its operating expenses to R&D, which supports process-development collaborations with major chip manufacturers and supports future product launches in deposition and related segments. The firm also follows a shareholder-return framework that combines potential dividends with share repurchases when conditions allow.
China's Display Giant Enters AI Chip Packaging, Bet on Western Glass at Risk
China's largest display panel maker, BOE Technology Group, has entered the AI chip packaging supply chain in 2026. The company's strategy relies on American glass and Western laser-drilling equipment, which can be cut off. The announcement is part of a larger escalation of BOE's ambitions since 2020. However, it has not yet solved the dependency problem that defines its staying power. The global glass-core packaging market is estimated to reach $8.5 billion by 2028, potentially reaching $27.6 billion by 2030. The firm has committed $54 million to build a wafer-level platform compatible with both glass and silicon substrates, followed by a pilot line of advanced technology.
Humanoid robots set for explosive growth
The global humanoid robot market is expected to grow from $4.2 billion in 2026 to $40.5 billion by 2033, a growth rate of 38.2%, according to a report from Grand View Research. The growth is attributed to accelerating AI innovation, persistent labour shortages, falling hardware costs, and increased investment from technology companies developing robots capable of performing increasingly complex tasks in human environments. Manufacturing is expected as the largest application segment for humanoid robots, with manufacturers investing in humanoid robots for assembly, inspection, quality control and material handling. Logistics and warehousing are also emerging as significant growth areas. The hardware segment continues to account for the largest share of market revenue, reflecting ongoing demand for sophisticated sensors, actuators, AI processors and battery technologies. While North America accounted for the most global revenue in 2025, Asia-Pacific is expected the fastest growth. Technology companies are also intensifying efforts to commercialise humanoid robots.
Samsung Creates New Robotics Division to Speed Up AI and Humanoid Robot Development - PhoneWorld
Samsung Electronics has created a new robotics division, the Robotics eXperience (RX) Division, named after Lee Dong-kun, who previously worked at Hyundai Motor Group and Boston Dynamics, a US-based robotics company owned by Hyundai. The division will oversee the company’s long-term robotics strategy, develop core technologies, and manage the commercialization of robotics products. It will also expand its robotics research capabilities in South Korea and overseas. The company plans to establish dedicated robotics research hubs in the US, China, and Japan as part of its global expansion. Samsung plans to continue investing in robotics infrastructure to strengthen its position in the fast-growing industry. The move aligns with a global trend of major tech companies investing heavily in robotics and factory automation.
UK plant will begin assembling next-gen surveillance gear
Teledyne FLIR Defense has announced that it will begin assembling its Star SAFIRE line of thermal imaging camera systems at its facility in West Malling, Kent. The move follows more than two years of planning and approval to produce the advanced surveillance systems locally for the UK Ministry of Defence. The Star SAFRE is a family of gimbal-mounted camera turrets that combine thermal imaging, high-definition color cameras, and a laser rangefinder or designator to accurately measure distance to a target or mark it for a guided weapon. Craig Cooper, Director and Site Lead at TeledyneFLIR Defense, said the decision was made in response to political pressure on defense manufacturers to invest domestically. The company is also working on plans to assemble surveillance systems across continental Europe in response the European Defense Industrial Strategy, the European Union's framework for strengthening domestic defense manufacturing capacity across member states.
LU partners with regional critical materials project, expands program
Lincoln University is partnering with the National Science Foundation (NSF) to expand its workforce training to support careers in the critical materials industry. The university's Employment Academy, a two-semester online certificate program, aims to equip nontraditional students with education and certificates that can help them enter the workforce. The project, the NSF Critical Materials Crossroads Engine project, is a regional initiative led by UMKC to reduce U.S. foreign reliance on critical minerals and materials. Lincoln is one of over 260 partners in the project to shift production and supply chain of critical minerals back to the U.N. The Employment Academy is set to receive about $250,000 in NSF funds for curriculum and student support.
Hyundai-Themed ETFs Slide as Motor Stock Stumbles
Exchange-traded funds based around Hyundai Motor (005380.KS) have seen a decline in performance due to the company's stock dropping below 400,000 won and concerns over slowing second-quarter earnings. Most theme ETFs focused on robots and humanoids have posted steep losses due to Hyundai Motor's recent fall. The ACE K Humanoid Robot Industry TOP2+, listed in April, performed the worst at -31.22%, followed by RISE Hyundai Motor Fixed Physical AI and KODEX Hyundai Motor Robotics Value Chain TOP3 Plus in terms of loss magnitude. These products were launched with a focus on the future growth potential of Hyundai Motor Group's robots, artificial intelligence (AI), and autonomous driving. However, as Hyundai Motor, the core component stock, recently experienced a sharp correction, ETF returns took a direct hit. Hybrid ETFs incorporating bonds and Hyundai Motor Kia Bond Mixed 50 saw a one-month return of -10.69%, while WON Samsung Electronics Hyundai Motor Bond Mixed50 saw a return of 16.39%. Despite this, analysts believe Hyundai Motor’s mid-term growth potential remains intact despite the short-term earnings slump.
Rodriguez to Showcase Precision Bearings and Cobot Transfer Unit at AMB 2026
Rodriguez is set to present its latest precision bearing solutions and collaborative robotics technology at AMB 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany. The company will showcase its RTB bearing series for machine tools and the MovoTrak Cobot Transfer Unit (CTU), designed to extend the working range of collaborative robots. The focus of the exhibition will be the RTB axial-radial roller bearings, which are designed to withstand radial and axial loads while transmitting tilting moments and enabling highly accurate, repeatable motion. The standard version of the RTBs is intended for a broad range of rotary and positioning tasks, while the new RTB CTU adds a movable seventh axis to serve multiple workstations within one production system. In addition to precision bearings and linear technology, Rodriguez will also present customized engineering solutions.
BMW Group pushes 3D printing toward full industrial series production - 3D Printing Industry
BMW Group is moving 3D printing from a prototyping tool to a permanent point of industrial series production, with the first vehicle components made by Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) set to enter series production in 2027. The company's Additive manufacturing Campus (AMC) in Oberschleissheim, Germany, is bringing in a new generation of metal printers, larger build volumes, and digitally networked process chains. This shift marks the point at which 3D printed stops being a workshop for one-off parts and begins behaving like any other production line at scale. The near-term work is to integrate a new fleet of metal systems and connect them into automated, digitally linked lines. Since opening since 2020, the AMC has produced over 1.6 million parts and has also supported the development and validation of the company’s Neue Klasse vehicles and produced 3D-printed components for the latest-generation electric drive.
ASML Offers €20,000 Retention Bonus to Secure Talent Through 2030 Amid Chip Industry Skills Shortage - Netherlands
ASML plans to offer eligible employees €20,000 ($22,838) retention bonus if they stay with the Dutch semiconductor equipment maker between 2027 and 2030 amid a global shortage of semiconductor professionals. The bonus will be structured as a conditional stock grant starting on January 1, 2027. The Deloitte report indicated that the global semiconductor industry will require more than 1 million additional skilled workers by 2030, or over 100,000 new workers annually, to meet demand. This comes as ASML continues to benefit from strong demand for its advanced lithography systems. The company plans to increase production capacity for its Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) lithography system by 30 percent in 2027, with the possibility of another expansion in 2028.
Precision Machining: Why Tighter Tolerances Are Becoming the Whole Business Case - Technology Org
The global precision machining market is on the rise, with a compound annual growth rate of 8%, reaching $133 billion this year and nearly $229 billion by 2033. The shift in demand for tight tolerances is seen as a major industry shift, with sub-10-micron accuracy now appearing in products such as phone housings, surgical tools, EV battery packs, and robot joints. The fastest growth is coming from aerospace, defense, and medical devices, where “acceptable tolerance” keeps shrinking with every new product generation. The biggest change is that AI-driven machining now becomes part of daily operations. Automation is also spreading down-market, with mid-sized shops becoming more common due to cheaper hardware and skilled labor shortages. The industry's focus is on precision machaining, with CNC operations accounting for over 40% of global share.
Samsung RX: Samsung's Bold Robotics Revolution Could Redefine the Future of AI-Powered Machines + Video - UNDERCODE NEWS
Samsung Electronics has established a new robotics organization, Samsung RX, a dedicated division responsible for developing next-generation robotic technologies. The move signals Samsung's ambition to become a major force in industrial robots, logistics automation, humanoid machines, and eventually consumer robotics. The company has recruited world-class researchers, experienced executives, and expanding its global research footprint. Samsung RX will operate directly under Samsung DX CEO TM Roh and will be led by Lee Dongkun, who previously worked extensively on robotics strategy at Hyundai Motor Group. The Seoul R&D Campus in Umyeon-dong is the primary headquarters for robotics development. To support robotics development, Samsung plans to build a dedicated data factory at its manufacturing plant in Gumi, South Korea.
Graphite One Advances US Battery Supply Chain
Graphite One Inc. has advanced its plans to establish a domestic battery materials supply chain in the US after the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) accepted the company's air permit application for its planned synthetic active anode material (AAM) manufacturing facility in Conneaut, Ohio. The application will move to the technical review phase before construction of the US$167 million facility can begin. The proposed Ohio plant is expected to play a significant role in Graphite One’s strategy to develop an integrated, US-based supply chain for graphite and battery materials. The company plans to initially produce approximately 10,000 tonnes of synthetic AAM annually at the Ohio facility, with plans to eventually expand production capacity to 25,000 tons per year. The move comes as the US seeks to build a more resilient domestic battery supply chain to support growing demand for EV and stationary energy storage.
ABB stock steadies as automation demand supports outlook after strong 2024 results
ABB Ltd (ISIN CH0012221716) stock continues to strengthen, with strong 2024 results and order trends published in ABB’s annual reporting and presentations for fiscal 2024 and 2025. According to ABB's investor information for 2024, group revenues reached around $33.3 billion, supported by continued demand in electrification and automation markets, while the operating margin and cash generation enabled further shareholder returns and balance-sheet strength. The company's operational EBITA margin improved compared to 2023, attributed to pricing discipline, mix and cost control, and higher-margin segments, including parts of the Motion and Robotics & Discrete Automation businesses. ABB also highlighted strong cash flow from operating activities, which supported continued investment in growth and technology as well as ongoing share buybacks and dividends. The Electrification and Motion divisions were the largest contributors to group revenues in 2024, leveraging global trends in energy efficiency, grid modernization and industrial automation. The report also highlighted a significant order backlog at the end of 2024, providing visibility into 2025 revenues.
Global Market: Private capital crucial to Europe's defence push as funding bottlenecks persist
Private investment will be crucial to Europe's defence industry as governments struggle with budget constraints and regulatory issues, according to senior finance executives at the Farnborough International Airshow. Executives from banks private equity firms and investment institutions said public spending alone would not be sufficient to support Europe's military ambitions. They called for greater clarity and reforms that encourage private investment. The event, which has attracted a record number of bankers and investors, is expected to attract over 600 finance delegates, three times the number seen in 2025. Despite this, investor enthusiasm for defence spending has been waning recently, with defence company share prices weakening and a delayed stock market listing by Franco-German defence group KNDS.
HydroGraph Clean Power (CNSX:HG) Is Up 10.8% After Securing Texas Graphene Scale-up Agreements
HydroGraph Clean Power (CNSX:HG) is up 10.8% after securing a long-term acetylene supply and land lease with Western International Gas & Cylinders for its first large-scale U.S. graphene production facility in Bellville, Texas. This collaboration effectively secures a critical feedstock and site for HydroGraph's scale-up, potentially strengthening its position in the emerging graphene materials supply chain. However, the company remains loss-making with a new management team, recent board turnover, and a high price to book. The valuation report suggests that HydroGraph Clean power's shares may be trading at a premium, with eight fair value estimates suggesting the stock might be worth as much as 71% more than the current price.
McCormick announces nearly $10 billion in new investment at PA Defense and Innovation Summit
U.S. Senator Dave McCormick announced nearly $10 billion in new investment at the first-ever Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit at the U.S Army War College in Carlisle, which included the top defense, technology, and finance leaders. The Summit advanced President Trump's vision of Peace through Strength and secured nearly $11 billion in investment supporting 4,000 jobs across the Commonwealth. Over 30 individual announcements were made advancing American shipbuilding, munitions, space industry, innovation, and emerging technologies such as AI and robotics. Over 1,300 attendees attended the Summit, including 600-plus C-level executives, representatives from 500-plus organizations, and over 130 exhibitor booths. The announcements included new ship orders for the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel through the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD), valued at $1.5 billion in program costs and supporting over 2,000 job-supporting over 2.000 jobs, and a $2.3 billion contract to provide operations, maintenance, and modernization for the Hawthorne Army Depot in Nevada.
The US reduces import tariffs for businesses building aluminum smelters.
The US Secretary of Commerce will establish an incentive program for businesses planning to invest in building new, expanding, or upgrading aluminum smelters in the country. If approved, businesses will be allowed to import the amount of virgin aluminum corresponding to their project needs and only be subject to half the current tariff rate. Currently, the US imposes a 50% tariff on most imported aluminum. The White House considers aluminum a crucial material for the American defense industry, used in the production of various weapons systems. The same day, President Trump signed an executive order strengthening controls on the use of critical minerals and sensitive materials from countries such as China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran in the defense supply chain. Starting in 2027, defense companies seeking exemptions from using sensitive materials will need to demonstrate they have sought alternative sources of supply.
Expanded GTP Pact Locks in $630M in Added Revenue for Almonty as Analyst Lifts Price Target
Almonty Industries has expanded its partnership with US defence supply chain partner Global Tungsten & Powders (GTP), extending a tungsten concentrate offtake agreement for the Sangdong mine in South Korea by six additional years and increasing both volume and pricing. The enhanced terms, announced in mid-July, run for 21 years and are expected to generate roughly $630 million in incremental revenue over the contract’s life. The expanded agreement covers roughly 90% of Sangdongo’�s planned Phase I production, with volume increased by 40% to 4.41 million metric tonne units (MTU), while the price per unit has improved by about 6.3%. Annual revenue tied to the contract is now projected at around $490 million, at least $30 million more than under the previous terms. Despite the contract's scale and strategic implications, the stock has yet to recover from a sharp correction leaving it trading more than 41% below its April high of C$33.35.
Why India must act now to dominate global battery materials: Vikram Handa, Managing Director, Epsilon Group
Epsilon Carbon has expanded its advanced battery materials and specialty carbon businesses over the past year. The company aims to achieve 100% domestic value addition for anode materials and 60% for cathode materials in India, as over 93 per cent of the world's graphite anode material still comes from China. The move is significant for Epsilon's global differentiation in a market set to reach 4.2 TWh by 2030 at a 41% CAGR, with EVs driving roughly two-thirds of demand. The firm has also announced a massive Rs. 15,350 crore investment in Karnataka for graphite, LFP cathode manufacturing, and EV battery R&D hub.
Graphite One Advances Ohio Battery Materials Facility with EPA Milestone
Graphite One Inc. has achieved a significant regulatory milestone for its proposed Active Anode Materials (AAM) manufacturing facility in Conneaut, Ohio, as the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) has accepted the company's air permit application for technical review. This move is a crucial step towards the development of the facility, which is expected to strengthen the domestic supply of battery-grade graphite materials. The facility is designed to produce synthetic Active Anodes Materials, an essential component used in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, renewable energy storage systems, and various industrial battery applications. The company's strategy allows the Ohio facility to proceed independently of its Graphite Creek mining project in Alaska. The announcement is likely to have a neutral short-term impact on graphite and battery materials, but supports a long-term outlook for synthetic graphite prices through improved domestic supply and enhanced supply chain resilience.
NOVONIX Secures A$962,600 via Share Purchase Plan to Boost Battery Anode Material Production Capacity
NOVONIX Limited (ASX: NVX), a leading North American battery materials company, has secured A$962,600 through its Share Purchase Plan (SPP) offer, raising approximately 89 eligible shareholders. The funds will be used to support production capacity and meet forecast customer demand for the company's high-performance synthetic graphite anode materials used in lithium-ion batteries. These funds will also be used for capital expenditure to support the company’s high-performing synthetic graphina anode material.
NOVONIX Raises A$962,600 Through Share Purchase Plan to Fund Battery Materials Production Capacity
NOVONIX has raised A$962,600 through a Share Purchase Plan (SPP) to fund its production capacity. The company received applications from eligible shareholders for 6,016,250 fully paid ordinary shares at an offer price of A$0.16 per share. The SPP was part of a fully underwritten institutional placement of A $20.7 million to sophisticated investors and was successfully completed on the same date. Approximately 89 eligible shareholders submitted valid applications, representing a participation rate of approximately 0.3% of eligible shareholders. The new SPP shares will be issued on 22 July 2026, one day after the offer closure date, with trading expected to begin on the ASX on 23 July 20 26. The proceeds from the SPP will be used to fund capital expenditure and meet forecast customer demand.
Hughes Precision’s Rs. 1,000 Crore Milestone: India’s Ammunition Industry Goes Global - Indian Aerospace and Defence Bulletin - News for aerospace and defence in India
Hughes Precision Manufacturing Pvt. Ltd. has achieved a significant milestone in India's defence industrial base, reaching a total order book of Rs. 1,000 crores in 2026. The company, established in 2020 under the Make in India initiative, has been hailed as a new model for defence manufacturing in India, combining nimble, quality-driven, export-focused and deeply integrated with national security needs. The firm is currently the only Indian small‑caliber ammunition manufacturer approved to supply the United States Department of Defense and NATO forces. 60% of the orders originates from Indian government agencies, while 40% comes from overseas clients. Hughes is also working towards a major capacity expansion to meet increasing demand. The success of this success is also a form of soft power when orders are placed for Indian‑made products and global institutions as exacting as the U.S. and NATO suppliers.