In a landmark deal aimed at reshoring critical materials supply, MP Materials (MP) announced a sweeping partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD).
The announcement sent its company shares skyrocketing more than 50% Thursday morning. The agreement positions the Pentagon as MP’s largest shareholder and cements the miner’s role at the heart of America’s strategy to regain independence in rare earth elements.
Pentagon Buys In, Becomes Largest Shareholder
Under the agreement, the Department of Defense will acquire $400 million in preferred stock, convertible into common shares at a price of $30.03. It also receives warrants to purchase additional shares, giving the DoD a potential 15% stake in the company—making it MP’s top shareholder. This public-private partnership marks a milestone in U.S. efforts to reduce reliance on China for critical materials used in technologies ranging from fighter jets to smartphones.
MP Materials’ stock hit $45.10 during morning trading, its highest level since April 2022. The stock has now nearly doubled in 2025 as global trade tensions push Washington to secure domestic sources of rare earths.
A $2 Billion Investment Package Anchors U.S. Supply Chain
The agreement includes a comprehensive funding package: $400 million in equity, a $150 million loan from the DoD, and a $1 billion financing line from JPMorgan Chase and Goldman Sachs. The funds will support construction of MP’s second magnet manufacturing facility—dubbed the "10X Facility"—at a site to be determined, with operations expected to begin in 2028.
Alongside the new plant, MP will expand rare earth separation capabilities at its flagship Mountain Pass mine in California, currently the second-largest rare earth site in the world. Once fully operational, MP’s domestic magnet output is expected to reach 10,000 metric tons annually.
Price Stability and Long-Term Demand Secured
To protect MP Materials from price volatility in global rare earth markets—where China controls over 80% of supply—the DoD has guaranteed a price floor of $110 per kilogram for MP’s neodymium-praseodymium (NdPr) products. That’s nearly double the average price since 2008.
In addition, the government has committed to purchasing 100% of the magnets produced at the 10X Facility for 10 years, covering both defense and commercial uses. With over 900 pounds of rare earths in each F-35 fighter jet alone, the DoD’s demand is substantial and strategically significant.
“This is a decisive move to strengthen America’s supply chain resilience,” said MP Materials CEO James Litinsky. “It’s a transformative partnership that ensures our national security and accelerates industrial independence.”
MP Materials Transforms Into a Strategic Powerhouse
Thursday’s announcement is a defining moment for MP Materials—and for the rare earths industry in the U.S. With a multibillion-dollar commitment from the government and backing from Wall Street’s biggest banks, MP is positioned to lead a revival of American critical mineral production. The agreement delivers more than capital—it ensures long-term demand, price stability, and a domestic supply chain from mine to magnet.
For investors, this deal catapults MP from a speculative resource play to a cornerstone of national strategy. As the U.S. accelerates toward mineral independence, MP Materials appears set to play a dominant role in powering the next generation of American technology and defense.
Considering a $1,000 investment in these companies?
Our team at Stock Investor carefully curated a list of top stocks with the potential for significant returns, suitable for beginners and seasoned investors alike who are eager to learn a trade and unearth the best stocks to buy. Though not featured in this article, these selected stocks could be game-changers in the future.For those seeking dynamic trading experiences, consider joining our Swing Trade Alerts, Option Income Alert, or our Trading Room. Take advantage of our special offer today, starting at just $1 in the first month.
Unlock the secrets of Smart Money
Explore how billionaires and institutions are influencing the market. Follow their every move with DarkOption Flow and stay updated on essential market insights. Begin your journey to informed investing today!
Education
And if you're a fan of Invest opedia, you'll appreciate what we offer at SharperTrades even more. Explore our comprehensive option trading course and technical trading course, where you can learn trading, analyze stocks, delve into chart patterns for stocks, and gain invaluable insights for making the best company investments.
Unlock Your Stock Market Edge with SharperTrades. Dive into powerful trading tools, learn a trade, and receive expert guidance. Stay up-to-date with regular market updates. Learn trading, basics of investing, and how to pick the best stocks to buy. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned investor and trader, we've got you covered. Get started for free, today!