Lockheed Martin (LMT) is in talks to secure supplies of US critical minerals as it looks to strengthen its domestic supply chain, Reuters reported Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

NioCorp Developments (NB) signed a preliminary agreement to supply Lockheed with 15 metric tons of scandium annually from its planned Nebraska mine, according to the report. The agreement still needs to be finalized.

Lockheed is also in separate discussions with Teck Resources (TECK) and 5N Plus for supplies of germanium used in military equipment, Reuters reported.

NioCorp Developments, Lockheed Martin, Teck Resources and 5N Plus did not immediately respond to MT Newswires' requests for comment.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)

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