China's Rare Earth Curbs Threaten U.S. Military Edge

China's export curbs on rare earth elements essential for U.S. defense technologies like fighter jets and missiles threaten America's military edge, as the country lacks short-term alternatives to China's supply of these critical materials, potentially widening the capability gap with Beijing.

• China has imposed export restrictions on seven rare earth elements crucial for U.S. defense technologies like fighter jets, missiles, and drones.
• The U.S. lacks the capability to replace China's supply of heavy rare earths in the short term, posing a threat to its military readiness.
• Developing domestic rare earths mining and processing will take years, leaving the U.S. vulnerable and widening the gap with China's military capabilities.