Uganda’s Orom-Cross Graphite Enters Advanced Defence Applications as Blencowe Targets High-Value Markets
Blencowe Resources is advancing the use of graphite from its Orom-Cross project in northern Uganda in specialised defence applications, including anti-radar and electromagnetic-interference (EMI) shielding for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other advanced platforms.
The company is working with three European advanced aerial-platform manufacturers, with one potential offtake agreement at an advanced commercial stage. Finalisation is subject to further flight testing and completion of technical and commercial documentation.
The graphite being tested is an ultra-fine 97% total graphitic carbon (TGC) flake product from Orom-Cross, processed into a dry powder pigment for specialist coatings.
Blencowe says the material is being evaluated for coatings designed to reduce electromagnetic signatures, potentially supporting applications in UAVs and other defence platforms.
Indicative pricing for the specialist product is approaching $20,000 per tonne on an FOB basis, significantly above conventional graphite concentrate prices.
The company is also exploring other advanced applications. In May, Orom-Cross graphite was used in rocket component testing in the United States, including components designed for high-temperature environments.
Offtake demand exceeds Phase 1 plans
Blencowe has reported that its existing non-binding offtake agreements exceed its planned Phase 1 production of 20,000 tonnes per year.
The company is now prioritising higher-value applications while building demand for the planned 70,000-tonne-per-year Phase 2 operation.
Its revised definitive feasibility study estimates the project’s net present value at $1.254 billion, up from $1.087 billion previously.
Funding remains critical
Despite progress in product development and offtake discussions, securing financing remains key to advancing Orom-Cross into production.
Blencowe is continuing discussions on a project-level funding structure for Phase 1 while expanding its customer base in specialist markets.
The growing interest from defence and aerospace manufacturers could provide Uganda with an opportunity to position Orom-Cross graphite in higher-value international markets, potentially increasing the economic value of the country’s graphite resources.
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