Why Rare Earth Metals Are the 'Lifeblood' of Future Advanced Weapons

Modern warfare, as seen in recent US-Iran tensions, demands not just troops and weapons but a steady supply of critical raw materials. Rare earth metals are essential for the ‘brain and nerves’ of advanced weaponry, enabling precision guidance, radar, and high-performance magnets in missiles, drones, and fighter jets. A US Government Accountability Office report highlights their use in almost all military systems.

President Prabowo Subianto has repeatedly stressed the strategic importance of these minerals for national defence. Following a meeting with his Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, in June 2026, the government focused on preparing human resources and technology to develop the rare earth industry. Prabowo also discussed strengthening cooperation in this sector with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2026, linking it directly to defence, maritime security, and technology.

Indonesia holds significant potential in rare earth elements, with the Geological Agency of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources identifying 28 locations across the country. The most promising reserves are in the Bangka Belitung and Riau Islands, where rare earths like monazite and xenotime are found as by-products of tin mining. These minerals contain valuable elements such as neodymium, a key component in high-strength permanent magnets used in electric motors, radar, missiles, and military electronics. The government now views rare earths not just as a mining commodity, but as a strategic asset for building a national technology and defence industry.