Vast reserves of Australian critical minerals will be mined, processed and exported under a deal the prime minister has struck with US President Donald Trump. 

But Australia’s already exporting plenty of zirconium to China and it can be used in everything from bathroom tiles to missiles and nuclear reactors. 

Today, Four Corners reporter Angus Grigg reveals how Australian critical minerals could end up aiding the advancement of Chinese military capabilities, including the construction of advanced hypersonic missiles. 

How will Australia balance its trade ambitions with the risk of supporting China's military machine, which analysts regard as a key threat to Australia’s national security? 

Featured: 

Angus Grigg, Four Corners reporter