The good news is that the NAS outlines a number of solutions to address and mitigate these vulnerabilities, including stockpiling of strategic inventories, development of meaningful policies, building institutional capabilities, and critical research.

FORBES: Protecting the Electric Grid from Terrorism -- Nobody is in Charge

Due to this almost-complete dependence on foreign sources, Molycorp is now looking to reopen its Mountain Pass mine in California and there is growing pressure on Congress to authorize the much-needed stockpiling of strategic minerals.

FORBES: China's New Economic Warfare