Join us in Washington DC
Project Blue is pleased to announce the return of its Critical Materials Conference: Aerospace & Defence 2027, taking place in Washington DC from 17–18 May following the success of its inaugural event.
The conference will bring together stakeholders from across the aerospace and defence value chains to explore the critical raw materials enabling advanced manufacturing, national security, and next-generation technologies.
The programme will feature data-led presentations and strategic panel discussions, covering topics such as supply chain resilience, US industrial policy, and material demand outlooks for sectors including fighter jets and drones.
The agenda will also examine battery and semiconductor supply chains through a dual-use lens, as shared reliance on materials is exposing vulnerabilities tied to China-centric production, intensifying debates around export controls, industrial policy, and long-term supply chain security.
Join us in Washington DC for expert insights on key raw materials, including antimony, aluminium, copper, cobalt, gallium, germanium, graphite, indium, lithium, magnesium, nickel, rhenium, rare earths, scandium, silicon, tantalum, tin, titanium, tungsten, and vanadium.
Who Should Attend?
Executives, analysts, and decision-makers across the aerospace, defense, and critical materials value chains — from mining and refining to OEMs, technology providers, and policymakers
What To Expect
- The 2027 programme will feature in-depth presentations, expert-led panel discussions, interactive sessions, and targeted networking, designed to stimulate debate and foster collaboration across multiple value chains.
- Attendees can expect strategic insights spanning market intelligence, technology shifts, geopolitical risk, supply chain resilience, investment dynamics, and cross-sector material requirements — with a particular focus on defence, aerospace, and electrification trends.
- Industry participants from across mining, materials processing, technology, manufacturing, and finance will explore how critical material strategies are evolving under increasing pressure from defence priorities, energy transition demands, and global security considerations.
- Network with industry peers, strengthen relationships, and explore commercial opportunities at one of the sector’s must-attend events.
Swapcard
We are using Swapcard to power our event platform.
Access everything you need for the Aerospace & Defence conference directly from your phone or desktop.
- Custom Agenda: View the full session schedule and build your personal itinerary by bookmarking key market briefings and roundtables.
- AI-Powered Networking: Complete your profile to receive smart recommendations of attendees, traders, and suppliers who match your business interests.
- One-on-One Meetings: Don’t leave networking to chance. Search the attendee list and pre-schedule meetings in the Networking Lounge before you even arrive.
- Digital Connections: Scan attendee badges with your phone to instantly save contact details and add follow-up notes
Venue
One of the world’s grandest and most iconic hotels, Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. combines American history and luxury, proudly setting the benchmark with two centuries of unrivaled hospitality.
Willard is a legendary hotel and celebrated landmark, standing steps away from The White House and surrounded by historical monuments and world-renowned museums. And there isn’t a more fitting place for cocktail connoisseurs and history buffs to raise a glass than the famous Round Robin Bar.
Location
Amenities
- Rooftop / outdoor pool (seasonal)
- WAVES rooftop deck / bar & lounge
- The Spa at The Wharf (full-service spa)
- Fitness center / gym (operating 24/7)
- Valet parking (includes in/out privileges)
- On-site parking (with valet)
- EV charging stations (via valet)
- Concierge services
- Business services: printing, fax, shipping
- Meeting / event spaces (11 accessible meeting rooms, ~17,000 ft²)
- Limo / car service / transportation arrangements
- Restaurant on-site (Willowsong)
- Multiple bars / lounges (3 bars / lounge spaces + pool bar)
- Room service (24-hour)
- Dry cleaning / laundry / valet laundry services
- Express check-in / check-out
- Multilingual staff
- Accessibility features: accessible rooms, ADA / wheelchair accessible pool, accessible public areas
- Free WiFi (in-room & public spaces)
