Understanding Rare Earth Elements: Critical Materials Powering Modern Technology and Defense Systems

Dec 03, 2025 04:27 pm CST

Rare earth elements, despite their name, are crucial components in modern technology from smartphones to fighter jets. As China implements export restrictions, these 17 elements have become strategic resources in global trade. The EU is now developing plans to boost European production of these critical materials, which are essential for magnets in wind turbines, components in F-35 fighter jets, smartphone functionality, electric vehicle batteries, and various industrial applications.