Department of War Invests $18.1M to Increase U.S. Refining Capacity for Germanium Metal
The Department of War announced today a 15 December 2025 investment of $18.1 million in Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III funds to 5N Plus Inc. (5N+). This investment announcement was delayed due to the government shutdown. 5N+ will use this investment to greatly expand refining capacity for germanium metal at their St. George, Utah, facility to feed optics and solar germanium crystal supply chains. This investment uses funds from the Additional Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2022. It also supports the Administration's goal to increase the production of processed critical minerals and other derivative products as articulated in the March 20, 2025, Executive Order 14241 - Immediate Measures to Increase American Mineral Production.
"Our warfighters depend on next generation optics for surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting, and germanium is a key element in their manufacture," said Assistant Secretary of War for Industrial Base Policy Mike Cadenazzi. "Increasing domestic germanium production is one of the highest industrial base priorities for the DoW."
Makers of defense applications use germanium in infrared optics, night vision systems, surveillance windows, individual thermal weapon sights, and other electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) equipment. Germanium is also essential for solar cells that power military and civilian satellites.
