Defence and Space

Rare earth elements (REEs) and high-performance magnets are critical to defence and space technologies, powering everything from fighter jets and submarines to advanced satellites and guided missile systems. As geopolitical tensions drive urgency in securing strategic stockpiles, the demand for sustainable, domestic, and recycling REE supply chains has never been more important.

Modern military and space industries rely on lightweight, high-strength materials – many of which are only possible thanks to REEs, particularly Neodymium-Iron-Boron (NdFeB) and Samarium-Cobalt (SmCo) magnets. These materials are essential for precision-guided weapons, surveillance systems, stealth technology, and deep-space exploration amongst a myriad of other critical defence/military techs.

China currently dominates more than 90% of global rare earth processing, creating a significant supply chain vulnerability. This reliance poses a significant supply chain vulnerability and strategic risk, as trade restrictions, price manipulation, or geopolitical conflicts could disrupt access to these critical materials, threatening defence and space capabilities.

Crucial Defence Applications

Securing a stable supply of rare earth materials is a national security priority, given their widespread use in military technologies.

• F-35 Lightning II Aircraft – Contains 920 pounds (417 kg) of REEs for radar, sensors, control systems, and motors.
• Virginia-Class Submarines – Uses 9,200 pounds (4,173 kg) of REEs in sonar, propulsion, and weapons systems.
• Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyers – Relies on 5,200 pounds (2,359 kg) of REEs for radar and missile guidance.
• M1A2 Abrams Tank – Uses REEs in magnets and optics for thermal imaging and targeting.
• Precision-Guided Munitions – REEs are critical in Tomahawk missiles, Javelin anti-tank systems, and AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles.
• Night-Vision & Surveillance – REEs enable infrared optics, laser targeting, and electronic warfare equipment.
• Stealth Technologies – Used in radar-absorbing coatings and electromagnetic countermeasures.

With so many critical applications, recycling and refining REEs from decommissioned military assets, as well as end-of-life wind turbines, is an essential strategic play for long-term supply security.

Space Exploration & Satellite Technology

REEs and NdFeB magnets are crucial to satellite communications, propulsion systems, and high-resolution imaging, making them indispensable in space tech.

• Satellite Communication Systems – Enhance signal processing, shielding, and durability.
• Propulsion & Power Systems – Samarium-Cobalt magnets power ion thrusters for deep-space missions.
• Advanced Imaging & Sensors -Used in telescopes, infrared surveillance, and Earth observation satellites.
• Radiation Shielding – Gadolinium (Gd) and other REEs protect sensitive electronics in space.

As global competition in defence and space technology grows amid national security concerns, nations are prioritising the insulation of their supply chains and building a circular economy to maintain long-term, sustainable REE and NdFeB magnet supply.

Recycling & Securing Supply Chains

As military equipment and satellites reach the end of their operational life, an astonishing amount of recoverable magnet feedstock becomes available. Recycling these materials reduces dependence on foreign sources, strengthens domestic manufacturing, and ensures a resilient supply chain for future defence and space technologies.

By integrating advanced REE recovery technologies, magnet recycling initiatives, and strategic stockpiles, nations can safeguard their access to critical materials for next-generation defence and space programs.