Vulcan wins US Army drone magnet contract as China decoupling drives selection

US rare-earth magnet startup Vulcan Elements has reportedly won a supply contract for the US Army's SkyFoundry drone program. The deal underscores Washington's push to localize drone production and cut reliance on China's rare-earth supply chain.

• Vulcan Elements will supply rare-earth magnets for the SkyFoundry program
• The contract reflects US efforts to move away from Chinese rare-earth supplies
• The program aims to localize drone production in the US