US military industry will find it difficult to replace Chinese components

The U.S. military industry is dependent on Chinese rare earth components, and it will be difficult to replace them, according to Chinese military analyst Wei Dongxu.

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China, according to the specialist, has a full industry line in the exploration, mining and production of rare earth elements and enjoys economies of scale, so it will be difficult for the US military-industrial complex (MIC) to find an alternative to Chinese products.

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Wei is confident that even if the United States finds short-term replacements for Chinese components, it will drive up costs.

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Earlier it became known that the Pentagon suspended the acceptance of new fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets due to the Chinese alloy used in their design. It is noted that this does not comply with the law on procurement, which prohibits the use of components from China without obtaining special approval.

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In 2021, it was reported that sales of US fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets in Europe were facing stiff competition from local manufacturers.