The Aerospace Industries Association responded on July 20 to the Executive Order titled “Securing America’s Defense Supply Chains and Ensuring Domestic Acquisition of Critical Materials.”
In a statement attributed to an AIA spokesperson, the organization said, “The aerospace and defense industry appreciates the Administration’s efforts to reduce U.S. dependence on adversarial nations for critical materials and is working collaboratively to strengthen supply chain resilience. This Executive Order will impede reaching these goals. For several of the minerals identified, domestic sources either do not exist today, or the U.S. lacks the capacity, scale, or purity requirements needed to meet demand. There are more workable approaches that will advance supply chain security and avoid unnecessary disruptions on companies that support our national defense, equip our warfighters with critical capabilities, and meet national security requirements.”
The AIA operates in the aerospace and defense sector, supporting manufacturers and suppliers through advocacy efforts and providing access to over 1,400 industry standards. The association also promotes diversity and inclusion initiatives within the industry; pushes for policies aimed at bolstering national security; encourages innovation; supports economic expansion; shapes policy on aviation safety, space innovation, workforce development; offers networking opportunities via councils and committees; and has led international business ethics initiatives since 2010 as part of its leadership in the International Forum on Business Ethical Conduct, according to the official website.
The statement reflects ongoing concerns about domestic sourcing challenges for certain critical minerals required by U.S. industries supporting national defense.
No further details were provided regarding alternative approaches or next steps from either AIA or federal officials.