The Pentagon is demanding audits from 30 US universities regarding their international research collaborations, particularly those involving China. The directive targets partnerships with Chinese institutions and those linked to former Confucius Institutes. Universities must scrutinize academic, financial, and research relationships with foreign entities deemed concerning. Failure to comply could jeopardize future federal funding opportunities. The Department of Defence aims to safeguard sensitive research and national security interests. This move reflects growing US concerns about potential foreign influence within academic institutions and the transfer of critical technologies. The initiative is part of a broader effort to strengthen research security across the US higher education system.