China’s growing control over rare earth minerals is emerging as a powerful strategic tool that could disrupt advanced military technologies such as the US F-35 fighter jet, analysts warn.
Beijing has expanded export-control rules covering rare earth elements and related technologies, giving it stronger leverage over global supply chains that power everything from electric vehicles to sophisticated defense systems.
Experts say the China rare earth strategy could significantly affect Western military capabilities because these materials are critical components used in modern fighter jets, radar systems, missiles and electronic warfare technologies.
Rare Earth Minerals Critical For F-35 Fighter Jets
Rare earth elements play a crucial role in advanced defense technologies.
Each F-35 fighter jet requires large quantities of rare earth materials in its engines, sensors, advanced electronics and weapons systems.
These minerals are also essential for:
- Missile guidance systems
- Radar technologies
- Precision-guided weapons
- Electronic warfare equipment
- Advanced defense batteries
China currently dominates global rare earth processing and supply, making it a critical player in global defense supply chains.
According to industry estimates, China processes the vast majority of the world’s rare earth materials, giving it significant influence over industries dependent on these resources.
China Expands Export Controls On Critical Minerals
Beijing has steadily tightened export-control regulations covering rare earth materials and related technologies.
New licensing requirements and compliance rules now allow China to exert more control over the global supply of these strategic materials.
The China rare earth strategy is part of a broader industrial and technological push outlined in the country’s long-term economic planning.
China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, unveiled at the National People’s Congress, highlights ambitions to dominate key future industries including artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum computing and advanced manufacturing.
These sectors depend heavily on rare earth materials and other critical minerals.
US Responds With Semiconductor And Technology Investments
The United States has attempted to counter China’s technological rise through policies aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing.
One of the most significant initiatives is the CHIPS and Science Act, signed in 2022.
The legislation allocated more than $52 billion to boost semiconductor manufacturing and research within the United States.
The funding includes billions in direct grants and tax incentives designed to reduce reliance on foreign technology supply chains.
However, analysts say China’s control over raw materials such as rare earth minerals still presents a major strategic challenge.
Rare Earth Supply Chains Becoming A Strategic Battleground
Rare earth elements sit at the center of the intensifying technological competition between the United States and China.
These materials are essential not only for defense systems but also for high-tech industries including:
- Electric vehicles
- Renewable energy systems
- Smartphones and electronics
- Advanced computing technologies
China’s strategy appears aimed at strengthening its position across these sectors by controlling both the supply of critical minerals and the technologies that depend on them.
Pentagon Moving To Reduce Dependence On China
The United States is attempting to reduce reliance on Chinese rare earth supply chains.
New procurement rules are expected to phase out Chinese rare earth materials from certain defense contracts starting in 2027.
However, experts warn that building alternative supply chains will take years.
Mining, processing and refining rare earth minerals require complex infrastructure and significant investment.
During this transition period, Western countries could remain vulnerable to disruptions in supply.
Technology Competition Could Shape Future Global Power
China’s broader strategy extends beyond rare earth minerals.
The country is investing heavily in technologies expected to define future economic and military power.
These include:
- Artificial intelligence
- Robotics
- Quantum computing
- Advanced manufacturing
- Space technologies
Analysts believe the combination of technological investment and resource control could give China a powerful advantage in the global competition for technological leadership.
In this scenario, future geopolitical rivalries may be decided less on battlefields and more within supply chains, factories and technological innovation systems.
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