Rare Earth Elements: China's Chokehold on US Defence Industry Wrecks Trump's Attempts to Contain China.
Some of the 17 Rare Earth Elements ("REE") are indispensable for the production of military equipment and platforms. But as of 2024, China mines nearly 70% of the world's rare earths and refines about 90% of the global supply. Without REE, the US Defence industries become lame ducks. If these industries are crippled, Trump has shot himself in the foot in trying to contain China's economic and miltary power. And that is the reason why Trump walked back on his Tariff tough talk and threats to China. Defense Applications of Rare Earth Elements Rare earth elements (REEs) run through nearly every advanced military system. They enable compact, reliable power; precise sensing and guidance; hardened communications; and survivable performance at high temperatures. Where REEs show up in defense systems High-performance magnets (Nd, Pr, Dy, Tb; Sm) What they do: Create compact, powerful, and heat‑tolerant permanent magnets. Where used: Missi...