Samarium, a key rare earth element, forms the backbone of samarium-cobalt (SmCo) permanent magnets renowned for their superior heat resistance and corrosion durability. These properties make SmCo magnets indispensable in U.S. military hardware where extreme temperatures prevail, such as jet engines, avionics, and missile components. Lockheed Martin, the prime contractor for the F-35 Lightning II, stands as the largest U.S. consumer of samarium. Each F-35 incorporates approximately 50 pounds of SmCo magnets in its turbomachine pumps and power systems, enabling stable operation under intense thermal stress that would demagnetize alternatives like neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) magnets.
The F-35 alone demands over 900 pounds of rare earth elements per aircraft, with SmCo playing a pivotal role in electric actuators, radar, and engine subsystems. This reliance extends across platforms: Virginia-class submarines pack 9,200 pounds of rare earths, including SmCo in high-heat electronics; Arleigh Burke destroyers use them in Aegis radar and propulsion; even Tomahawk missiles and MQ-9 Reaper drones integrate small SmCo components for guidance and sensors. The U.S. military consumes 3,000 to 4,000 tons of rare earth magnets annually, amplifying samarium's strategic weight as fleet expansions like additional F-35s, B-21 bombers, and Columbia-class subs loom.
China's dominance exacerbates risks. Holding 98-99% control over heavy rare earth refining, including dysprosium often alloyed with samarium for enhanced performance, Beijing's April 2025 export restrictions on seven rare earths have triggered supply bottlenecks and price surges into 2026. Experts from S&P Global and Project Blue forecast persistent disruptions for heavy rare earths (HREEs) like samarium additives, with non-Chinese premiums flourishing due to defense qualification needs. A single F-35 incident revealed Chinese SmCo in its turbomachine, spotlighting supply chain perils.
Market data reinforces urgency. The rare earth metals market hits USD 6,407.6 million in 2026, growing at 6.6% CAGR to 2033, led by neodymium (39.1% share) but buoyed by defense and clean energy demand. North American efforts, via companies like MP Materials and Lynas, aim for 9-10% refined supply by 2035, yet higher costs hinder progress. The 2026 Critical Minerals Ministerial signals allied pushes for diversification. For industry analysts, samarium's military entrenchment demands accelerated domestic processing to safeguard deterrence, as U.S. platforms from fighters to submarines hinge on these heat-defying magnets amid geopolitical friction.