China’s grip on rare-earth magnets could crush US drone industry before it grows

China's dominance in rare-earth magnet production threatens the U.S. drone industry's ability to scale manufacturing, as these magnets are critical for drone motors. The Pentagon's Drone Dominance Program aims to purchase 340,000 drones by 2028 but faces supply chain challenges due to reliance on Chinese imports. Alternatives like iron nitride magnets are highlighted as potential solutions.