How Rare Earths Power U.S. Defense

Key Takeaways

• U.S. military platforms like the Virginia-class submarine and Arleigh Burke destroyer require thousands of kilograms of rare earth elements (REEs).
• F-35 Fighter jets alone use over 400 kg of REEs, essential for weapons targeting systems, lasers, and other advanced onboard technologies.
• Elements like Neodymium, Praseodymium, Samarium, Dysprosium, and Terbium are common across all platforms, primarily due to their role in permanent magnets used in propulsion and guidance.
• Currently, over 70% of U.S. rare earth imports come from China.