China has paused the export of critical rare earth minerals mined or processed in China as a result of the country’s escalating trade war with the US. Crucial US military products, such as Air Force fighter jet engines are powered by these materials. The wide range of restrictions on critical minerals and agents is a threat to US national security as it impacts critical US military programs and defense technology. China is sending a message that the American defense industry depends on China. 

Read more: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/14/us/politics/china-critical-minerals-risk-military-programs.html