Core Insights - Ivanhoe Mines is in advanced discussions with Gécamines and Mercuria to supply the U.S. with critical minerals from the Kipushi Mine, which is known for its ultra-high-grade zinc-copper-lead-germanium-gallium production [1][5] - Project Vault, a $12 billion initiative, aims to build a strategic reserve of critical minerals in the U.S., combining $1.67 billion in private capital with a $10 billion loan from the Export-Import Bank [2][3] Group 1: Project Vault and Its Implications - Project Vault was officially launched on February 2, 2026, in the Oval Office, with key figures from the mining and manufacturing sectors in attendance, including Robert Friedland and Mary Barra [3][4] - The initiative is designed to enhance supply chain security for critical minerals, which are essential for various industries [2] Group 2: Kipushi Mine Production and Resources - The Kipushi Mine's 2026 production guidance is set at 240,000 to 290,000 tonnes of zinc concentrate, which also includes significant quantities of germanium and gallium [8] - The mine's 2018 Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources are estimated at 11.78 million tonnes, with a zinc grade of 35.34%, and contain approximately 9.2 billion pounds of zinc and 24.4 million ounces of germanium [9] Group 3: Strategic Importance of Minerals - Germanium and gallium are identified as strategic metals used in various high-tech applications, including electronic devices and solar power arrays [10] - The demand for these critical minerals has surged due to advancements in technology, particularly in AI and big data centers [9]