惊！美国对C919动手，暂停发动机技术出口

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the escalation of the U.S.-China strategic competition, particularly in high-tech industries, highlighted by the U.S. Department of Commerce's suspension of technology export licenses to COMAC for the C919 aircraft, following China's export controls on rare earth elements [1][4][12]. Group 1: U.S. Export Restrictions - The U.S. has suspended technology licenses for exporting jet engine-related technology to COMAC, directly impacting the C919 aircraft's production capabilities [1]. - The C919, while designed in China, relies on international supply chains for key components, particularly the LEAP-1C engine from CFM International, a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran [1][10]. - As of the end of 2024, the C919 has over 1,500 orders, with nearly 400 being international, indicating significant market interest that could be jeopardized by supply chain disruptions [1]. Group 2: China's Response and Rare Earth Controls - China's April implementation of export controls on seven categories of rare earths aims to prevent their use in U.S. military applications, affecting critical U.S. defense systems like the F-35 fighter jet [4][5]. - The U.S. is heavily reliant on China for rare earths, with 70% of its rare earth compound imports coming from China, which holds 92% of global refining capacity [4][12]. - Despite a tax agreement reached during U.S.-China talks, China's control over strategic resources remains firm, with only limited rare earth exports resuming [4][5]. Group 3: Domestic Alternatives and Technological Development - China is accelerating its development of domestic alternatives for aircraft engines, with the Longjiang 1000A engine undergoing testing for compatibility with the C919, showing comparable fuel efficiency to the LEAP-1C [6][8]. - The C919's reliance on foreign technology has prompted discussions about enhancing domestic production capabilities and achieving certification for Chinese-made components [11]. - The shift towards domestic components could allow China to establish its own standards, reducing dependency on Western certifications [11][12]. Group 4: Global Industry Impact - The U.S. export restrictions may lead to significant financial repercussions for American companies, with GE having 7,700 engines in operation in China and potential claims exceeding $100 billion if supply is cut off [11]. - The situation reflects a broader shift in the global aviation industry, with the rise of Chinese manufacturers like COMAC potentially altering the competitive landscape from a duopoly to a triopoly [12][13]. - The ongoing U.S.-China competition in high-tech sectors is likely to catalyze advancements in China's domestic industries, particularly in aviation and semiconductor technologies [12][13].