U.S. Pushes to Reclaim Critical Supply Chains from Adversary Dependence

At a Washington-based policy event, Under Secretary of War Emil Michael highlighted that the United States now depends on a foreign adversary for vital supplies such as batteries, magnets, critical minerals and pharmaceuticals. He traced this reliance to decades of offshoring that damaged many U.S. communities. Michael said the administration is actively onshoring key sectors, including semiconductor fabrication in Arizona and Ohio, and expanding domestic capacity for minerals, batteries and missile components.

He noted a looming shortage of electricians and metal workers, positions that can earn six-figure salaries. Contrary to common AI forecasts, Michael argued the technology will increase demand for blue-collar labor, especially in data-center construction. Recent procurement moves include a $1.4 billion investment in Sila Nanotechnologies and $150 million for Niron Magnetics, both aimed at reducing foreign reliance.