Anna's Deep Dives

_{Just facts, you think for yourself}

What exactly are Rare Earth Elements (REEs)? Why are they indispensable for both cutting-edge technology and national defense? How vulnerable is the U.S. due to overwhelming reliance on a single global supplier, and what strategies can enhance security?

Check the date.

In April 2025, the Chinese government imposed strict export controls on seven key Rare Earth Elements. This move sent ripples through global industries and defense sectors, highlighting a critical vulnerability: China dominates the mining (around 70%) and, more crucially, the complex processing (around 90%) of these essential materials. The U.S. imports the vast majority of its REE needs, often processed in China.  

Rare Earths – 17 metallic elements like neodymium, dysprosium, and yttrium – aren't necessarily geologically rare, but extracting and processing them is difficult, costly, and environmentally challenging. Yet, their unique magnetic, optical, and catalytic properties make them irreplaceable ingredients in technologies core to modern life and defense. They are essential for electric vehicle motors, wind turbines, smartphones, and advanced military hardware. An F-35 fighter jet contains about 900 pounds of REE materials, and a Virginia-class submarine needs over 9,000 pounds.  

How do we navigate this complex landscape?

This deep dive explores the strategic imperative surrounding Rare Earth Elements for the U.S.

• First, we explain what REEs are, their unique properties, and their wide-ranging applications from consumer electronics to critical defense systems.  

• Next, we examine the global supply chain, detailing China's strategic dominance in both mining and processing, and the inherent vulnerabilities this creates for importing nations like the U.S..  

• We then analyze the multifaceted U.S. response, including significant investments in domestic mining and processing, legislative actions, efforts to build strategic stockpiles, fostering international partnerships through initiatives like the Minerals Security Partnership, and funding research into alternative materials and recycling technologies.  

• Finally, we consider the economic implications of price volatility and supply disruptions, the significant environmental challenges associated with REE extraction, and the crucial need to balance national security requirements with sustainability goals.  

We don’t take shortcuts, chase headlines, or push narratives. We just bring you the news, straight and fair. If you value that, click here to become a paid subscriber—your support makes all the difference.

Table of Contents

^{(Click on any section to start reading it)}

1. Introduction: The Strategic Significance of Rare Earths

• What Are Rare Earth Elements (REEs)?

  • Definition and classification of REEs

  • Unique properties and applications

• Historical Context

  • Evolution of REE usage in technology and defense

  • Past supply chain challenges and lessons learned

• Current Relevance

  • Why REEs are critical to modern national security

  • Overview of global REE demand and supply​

2. Military and Technological Dependence on Rare Earths

• Defense Applications

  • Use of REEs in fighter jets, missile systems, and naval vessels

  • Importance in communication and surveillance equipment

• Advanced Technologies

  • Role in emerging technologies like hypersonics and directed energy weapons

  • Integration in AI and quantum computing hardware

• Civil-Military Integration

  • Overlap between civilian and military REE applications

  • Implications for supply chain security​

3. Global Supply Chains and Geopolitical Dynamics

• China's Dominance

  • Extent of China's control over REE mining and processing

  • Strategies employed by China to maintain dominance

• Supply Chain Vulnerabilities

  • Risks associated with concentrated supply sources

  • Impact of export restrictions and trade disputes

• International Responses

  • Efforts by the U.S. and allies to diversify supply

  • Collaborations and partnerships to secure REE access

4. U.S. Strategies for Securing Rare Earth Supplies ^_(Premium)

• Domestic Initiatives

  • Investment in domestic mining and processing facilities

  • Legislative measures to promote REE independence

• Stockpiling and Reserves

  • Development of strategic reserves for critical minerals

  • Policies under the Strategic and Critical Materials Stock Piling Act

• Research and Development

  • Funding for alternative materials and recycling technologies

  • Support for innovation in REE extraction and processing

5. Economic and Environmental Considerations ^_(Premium)

• Market Dynamics

  • Price volatility and its effects on industry

  • Economic implications of supply disruptions

• Environmental Impact

  • Challenges in environmentally sustainable REE extraction

  • Regulatory frameworks governing mining activities

• Balancing Security and Sustainability

  • Strategies to reconcile national security needs with environmental concerns

  • Role of recycling and circular economy approaches​

6. Future Outlook and Policy Recommendations _^(Premium)

• Emerging Technologies and REE Demand

  • Projected growth in REE requirements for future tech

  • Potential for new materials to reduce dependence

• Policy Frameworks

  • Recommendations for U.S. policy to enhance REE security

  • Importance of international cooperation and alliances

Baked with love,

Anna Eisenberg ❤️