Rare earth elements: German defense industry in a tight spot

Rare earths are extremely valuable metallic elements that are not only found in smartphones and electric cars, but also in weapons. Among other things, they are used in the construction of fighter jets and submarines. In addition, rare earths are found in specially hardened ammunition and armored vehicles, in propulsion systems and sensor technology.

More than 400 kilos of rare earths are used in one F-35 stealth bomber alone.

The lion's share of the rare earths processed in Germany comes from China, and this is precisely where the problem lies: As a result of the tariffs dispute with the US, Beijing announced at the beginning of October that it would once again drastically tighten its already strict export rules. China threatened to stop exporting rare earths needed for military purposes.

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