US faces new pressure to build weapons without China’s rare earth magnets
Summary
The United States is working to reduce its dependence on China for rare earth magnets used in advanced weapons. A small company in New Hampshire called Phoenix Tailings is expanding its refinery to produce these critical minerals from mining waste, supported by a $500 million loan from the Pentagon. This effort aims to speed up domestic production to meet defense needs amid global conflicts and stricter rules on sourcing from China.Key Facts
- The U.S. relies heavily on China for rare earth magnets essential in advanced weapon systems like missiles and fighter jets.
- Phoenix Tailings, based in Exeter, New Hampshire, refines rare earth elements from mining waste using electrolysis.
- The Pentagon gave Phoenix Tailings a $500 million loan to build a new factory that will increase rare earth processing capacity.
- It will take about 14 to 18 months to complete the new factory.
- The need for increased domestic production is urgent due to military demands and rules banning sourcing critical minerals from China.
- Many U.S. rare earth mines are still years from operating, so extracting minerals from existing waste helps meet immediate demand.
- The expanded production supports U.S. weapons systems such as Tomahawk cruise missiles, THAAD interceptors, and F-35 fighter jets.
- Phoenix Tailings’ workers wear protective suits and masks due to the nature of the materials handled during refinement.
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