BLUF
Lanthanum, a rare earth element critical to refining JP-8 jet fuel, underpins US and NATO military operations. China controls most global supply, posing a strategic vulnerability that could constrain fuel production in a crisis.Learning Outcomes:
- Explain how lanthanum enables large-scale JP-8 jet fuel production and its significance for joint force operations.
- Assess the strategic risks of China’s control over lanthanum supply chains for allied operational readiness.
- Evaluate mitigation options to strengthen resilience in critical material supply for defence energy security.
