Rare earth elements (REEs) are a group of 17 metals with unique magnetic, optical, and catalytic properties that make them essential for modern technology. They are critical components in a wide range of applications, including defense systems, renewable energy technologies, and consumer electronics. However, the United States has long been dependent on imports from China for its supply of REEs, which has raised concerns about the security of its supply chain in the event of geopolitical tensions or disruptions in international trade. In response to these concerns, the U.S. government has been working to strengthen its domestic REE supply chain, reduce reliance on imports, and secure access to these critical materials for the defense industry.
Importance of Rare Earth Elements in the Defense Industry
Rare earth elements play a crucial role in the development and production of advanced defense technologies. They are used in the manufacturing of high-performance permanent magnets, which are essential components in a variety of defense systems, including radar systems, missile guidance systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). REEs are also used in the production of night vision goggles, infrared sensors, and other advanced sensor technologies that are critical for modern warfare.
In addition to their direct applications in defense systems, REEs are also essential for the development and deployment of renewable energy technologies, which are increasingly important for the U.S. military’s efforts to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and improve its operational flexibility. For example, rare earth elements are used in the production of high-performance permanent magnets for wind turbines and in the development of efficient solid-state lighting for military installations.
Current State of Rare Earth Element Supply Chains in the United States
Despite their strategic importance, the United States has limited domestic sources of rare earth elements, and it is largely dependent on imports from China to meet its demand. In 2019, the U.S. imported approximately 14,000 metric tons of rare earth compounds and metals, with China accounting for more than 80% of these imports. This dependence on China has raised concerns among policymakers and defense experts about the vulnerability of the U.S. defense supply chain to potential disruptions in the future.
Efforts to Strengthen Domestic Rare Earth Element Supply Chains
To address these concerns, the U.S. government has been implementing a range of policies and initiatives aimed at strengthening domestic REE supply chains and reducing dependence on imports. These efforts include:
Investing in domestic mining and processing: The U.S. government has been providing financial support for the exploration and development of domestic REE resources, as well as investing in the development of new processing technologies to extract and refine these elements domestically. For example, the Department of Defense (DoD) has awarded contracts to several U.S. companies to develop and expand domestic REE mining and processing capabilities.
Promoting recycling and material recovery: Another key strategy for reducing dependence on imports is to increase the recycling and recovery of rare earth elements from end-of-life products and waste streams. The U.S. government has been investing in research and development of new recycling technologies and processes to recover REEs from discarded magnets, batteries, and other sources.
Diversifying sources of rare earth elements: In addition to investing in domestic production, the U.S. government has been working to diversify its sources of rare earth elements by exploring new trade agreements and partnerships with other REE-producing countries, such as Australia, Canada, and