U.S.-based Dynamic Aviation has proposed a national critical minerals data program to the Democratic Republic of Congo. The project aims to improve knowledge of the country's geological and mining potential through aerial imaging, remote sensing and geospatial data processing technologies.

According to the Congolese presidency, President Felix Tshisekedi met with Dynamic Aviation Chairman and CEO Michael Stoltzfus on June 16, 2026, in Houston. Their discussions focused on the possibility of a strategic partnership in geological and mining data.

Dynamic Aviation has proposed supporting the mapping of Congo's mineral resources through advanced technological solutions. The stated objective is to generate high-quality data that could strengthen the attractiveness of the country's extractive sector for international investors.

Strategic stakes

The U.S. company operates aerial platforms used for imaging, surveillance, reconnaissance and data collection for civilian and security purposes. In Congo's case, the focus is primarily on producing and using geospatial data for mineral resource assessment.

For Kinshasa, this is a strategic issue. The Democratic Republic of Congo holds significant reserves of minerals sought after in global energy transition and technology supply chains, including copper, cobalt, lithium, tantalum, tin, tungsten and rare earth elements.

Improved mapping could help provide a clearer picture of the country's resource potential, support the development of mining projects and attract investors on a stronger technical basis.

But the presidency has emphasized a red line: national sovereignty over natural resources and strategic data. Felix Tshisekedi welcomed Dynamic Aviation's interest in Congo's mining potential while reiterating that control over those resources and the related data remains a non-negotiable principle.

Proposal under review

The president invited the project's proponents to continue discussions with the government, particularly with the prime minister, and to submit a detailed technical and financial proposal.

At this stage, no contract has been concluded, and the initiative remains a partnership proposal under consideration.

The case highlights a growing concern for the Democratic Republic of Congo: gaining a better understanding of its mineral resources, capturing more value from its critical minerals and strengthening its negotiating position, while avoiding a situation in which strategic data generated on those resources is controlled by external actors.

Ronsard Luabeya