ExecutiveOrdersEO
DetDeterminationTrump 45 · R Quiet signal

Presidential Determination

Presidential Determination Pursuant to Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as Amended

This presidential determination invokes Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950 to declare that lithium sea-water batteries are essential to national defense, finding that U.S. industry cannot adequately produce them without government intervention. The determination enables federal incentives, purchase commitments, or other DPA authorities to develop and procure this battery technology.

Federal Register Open PDF 83 FR 51619

Impact dates

  1. Publication in Federal Register (occurred 2018-10-10 per filing notice)

Key directives

  • Determine lithium sea-water batteries essential to national defense under DPA Section 303(a)(5)
  • Authorize and direct publication in Federal Register

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Determination takes effect upon signing; DPA Section 303 authorities become available for lithium sea-water batteries

Near term (90d)

  • Potential DPA-funded purchase commitments or equipment acquisition for battery development

Long term

  • Development and production of lithium sea-water batteries for defense applications; potential establishment of domestic supply chain

Risks & tensions

  • Technology readiness of lithium sea-water batteries uncertain; niche technology with limited commercial viability may require sustained subsidy
  • Potential tension between 'most cost effective' claim and DPA's typically premium pricing for strategic prioritization
  • Vague on specific dollar amounts, quantities, or procurement timelines — leaves implementation open-ended
Presidential Determination: Presidential Determination Pursuant to Section 303 of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as Amended · Executive Orders