Video News/In Focus with Jeremy Szafron

Retired U.S. Navy Commander Phil Ehr said copper is moving beyond a traditional industrial metals story and becoming a national security concern as defense systems, AI infrastructure, the power grid and consumer technology compete for the same supply chain. Speaking with Kitco News, Ehr said copper is essential to weapons systems, communications and the modern electrical economy. “Copper is the glue that holds it all together,” he said, adding that if supply tightens, defense needs are likely to take priority over the grid and consumer demand. Ehr also discussed China’s dominance in critical mineral processing, 2027 Pentagon sourcing restrictions, maritime chokepoints affecting copper refining, and the need for allied supply chains in safe jurisdictions.