Source: SAFE analysis based on Aluminum Association and industry data
Aluminum is valued for its high strength-to-weight ratio and is used widely in the defense industrial base for a range of critical systems: fighter jets, unmanned aerial vehicles, tactical vehicles, missile systems, satellites, and more.
Many of these strategic applications require primary aluminum, which is produced from bauxite ore through a complex, energy intensive process involving refining, smelting, and casting. The United States’ demand for primary aluminum is projected to grow from 4.4 million to 5.1 million tons by 2029.
Today, the U.S. imports 84% of its primary aluminum and only five smelters are in operation in 2026, operated by Alcoa, Century Aluminum, and Magnitude 7 Metals. A sixth, in Inola, Oklahoma, has been announced and is under development.
This interactive map displays aluminum smelters in the U.S. across three categories.
- Currently in operation
- Announced future smelters
- Operational in the 1980s
The map visualizes America’s previous standing as the world’s leading producer of primary aluminum, with a heavy concentration of smelters in the Pacific Northwest.
Learn more from SAFE’s Center for Strategic Industrial Materials:
