America's missile production vulnerable due to China's reliance
The Ukrainian portal Defense Express reports that the American military sector is heavily reliant on external technological resources. This situation necessitates the US importing rare metals from China for the production of missiles, including the Tomahawk. Ukrainians note that this dependency might explain why Donald Trump showed interest in sourcing metals from Ukraine.
The United States is compelled to import rare metals from China to manufacture missiles like the Tomahawk. This dependence on Chinese supplies is particularly notable given the ongoing competition over building modern military equipment. It is worth remembering that Beijing is developing a modern submarine, among other things.
USA dependent on China
The defence sector requires tungsten, an element crucial for the production of modern tanks, armoured vehicles, and ammunition. Although small deposits exist in America and Africa, the largest reserves are in China. Defence Express reports that the US must import this vital element from China to build missiles.
The Ukrainian portal indicates that although the American defence industry is generally efficient, it cannot operate without necessary resources. According to an analysis by the CSIS institute in 2023, during a potential conflict between the USA and China, Americans could launch at least 5,000 cruise missiles, including the Tomahawk and Harpoon.
Factories are efficient but need materials
The issue is that although the USA can produce a similar amount of ammunition in up to 25 months, this relies heavily on the crucial condition of having access to essential resources, which are not available domestically and must be sourced from China.
Defense Express notes that while the American defence industry depends on metal supplies from China, in 2018, the US military received directives from authorities to systematically reduce this dependence on external materials and technologies, particularly from China. Nonetheless, according to the report, reality has shown that by 2023, the Pentagon and US Air Force research facilities will become even more technologically dependent on China.
Tomahawk missiles
It is important to recall that the Tomahawk cruise missiles mentioned by Defense Express about potential production hurdles are among the most notable and versatile components of the arsenal used by American forces and their allies. These missiles were designed for precise attacks on distant targets, specialising in eliminating key structures, such as command centres, critical infrastructure, ammunition depots, and strategic military installations. Tomahawks are notable for their capability to fly at low altitudes, using natural terrain features to evade radar detection and counter enemy air defences.
With a range exceeding 1,930 kilometres, these missiles are suited for long-range assaults, minimising risk for both crews and combat units. Advanced navigation systems, including GPS, inertial systems, and radar, contribute to their exceptional accuracy even in challenging combat conditions. They can be launched from various platforms, including surface ships, submarines, and mobile land launchers, making Tomahawks extremely adaptable in military operations.
