Tungsten Traps: How Has the U.S. Created a Shortage of This Critical Metal?

According to foreign media reports, the United States is currently facing a shortage of tungsten. Tungsten is a crucial metal for defense applications—such as "Tomahawk" cruise missiles—and numerous high-tech products.

However, the current predicament stems directly from U.S. policies:

Domestic tungsten mines in the United States have remained idle since 2015;

During its conflict with Iran, the U.S. consumed large quantities of "Tomahawk" cruise missiles and supplied these weapons to its allies, especially South Korea and Japan;

The U.S. imposed tariffs on China, the world’s largest tungsten producer, prompting China to respond with export controls on tungsten-related products;

Starting January 1, 2027, the U.S. will impose restrictions on sources of tungsten supply for defense procurement purposes.

While the U.S. obtains some required tungsten through recycling and processing, it remains heavily reliant on imports and is actively seeking alternative suppliers. To compete with China, the U.S. has even revived the Sondong tungsten mine in South Korea—a site that had been closed for 30 years and was once among the world’s largest.

Applications of Tungsten:

Production of various weapons and ammunition;

Manufacturing of semiconductors;

Production of radiation shielding materials;

Production of various precision alloys and special steels;

Tungsten plays a particularly vital role in modern weapon production.

Why Is Tungsten So Important in Weapon Manufacturing?

High density ensures significant kinetic energy upon impact;

Extremely high melting point (3,422°C) allows components like rocket engine nozzles and projectile tips to withstand extreme thermal loads;

High hardness and high density provide resistance to deformation and wear;

Resistant to corrosion by most alkalis and acids;

Low thermal expansion coefficient ensures dimensional stability at high temperatures.

Specific Applications of Tungsten in Weapon Production?

Tungsten rods used to balance rotating parts in weapons, reducing vibration and improving shooting accuracy;

Used in rocket engine nozzles and advanced technological systems;

Serving as the core material in high-kinetic-energy armor-piercing projectiles.

China’s Dominant Position

In terms of tungsten resources, China holds multiple advantages over the United States:

Estimated reserves of about 2.5 million tons, accounting for 53.19% of global total reserves;

Annual output of approximately 67,000 tons, representing around 80% of global production;

China has established a complete tungsten production chain, covering mining, smelting, and deep processing;

The Chinese government adheres to a clear policy focused on safeguarding national interests.

Source: sputniknews, adapted from overseas media

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866266561124428/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.