China's Grip on Samarium: A Strategic Military Chokehold
China has solidified its position as the sole global supplier of samarium, a rare earth mineral crucial to modern military technology. This mineral is indispensable for manufacturing advanced defense platforms, including fighter jets, missiles, and smart bombs. Amid escalating trade tensions, China’s halt on samarium exports is placing significant pressure on Western militaries.
Why Samarium Matters in Defense
Unlike other rare earth elements, which serve largely civilian markets, samarium's usage is almost exclusively military. This mineral is vital for producing powerful magnets required in critical systems onboard aircraft like the F-35 fighter jet. Without samarium magnets—up to 50 pounds needed per F-35—the production and maintenance of these advanced aircraft could grind to a halt.
China’s Export Ban and Its Consequences
In April 2025, China imposed a complete ban on samarium exports amid an ongoing trade dispute with the United States. While licenses have been partially restored for some rare earths such as dysprosium and terbium, samarium remains tightly restricted. This move appears strategic—aimed at controlling the manufacturing capabilities of Western defense forces and influencing geopolitical leverage.
The Impact on Western Military Production
- Lockheed Martin, the primary U.S. consumer of samarium, relies heavily on this mineral to build the F-35, one of the world’s most advanced fighter jets.
- Experts warn that the ongoing samarium shortage could stall both production and essential maintenance of military hardware.
- Defense reserves of samarium in the U.S. and allied nations are limited, projected to last only a few months without replenishment.
The shortage comes at a critical time as Western countries boost their military stockpiles following extensive aid to conflict zones like Ukraine and Israel.
Strategic Leverage in Trade Negotiations
The samarium supply chokehold provides China significant bargaining power in broader trade talks. There's growing evidence that China may have leveraged this rare earth control to extract concessions from the West concerning technology access. The delicate balance between supply control and diplomatic negotiations underscores the mineral’s geopolitical significance.
Looking Ahead: Risks and Readiness
As China maintains its firm grip on samarium exports, Western defense industries face a pressing challenge to diversify supply chains or develop alternative technologies. Without swift action, the military capabilities of key allies risk being constrained by access to this critical resource.
In essence, China’s exclusive command of samarium is not just a commercial advantage—it’s a strategic tool reshaping global military dynamics.
