The U.S. Department of War has released its Fiscal Year 2025 update to the NDAA Section 1286 list, identifying 130 foreign academic and research institutions tied to what it describes as problematic activities. The institutions named in the update are located in China, Russia, and Iran.
According to the announcement, the purpose of the list is to help address concerns about unauthorized transfers of technology and other research-related risks. The update continues a broader effort to monitor overseas institutions that may present challenges for defense, security, and sensitive research collaboration.
Section 1286 of the National Defense Authorization Act is used as a tool for highlighting entities that may require added scrutiny. By publishing the FY2025 list, the department is signaling continued attention to how academic and research partnerships can intersect with national security concerns, especially when advanced technology is involved.
The updated list is likely to matter for organizations, universities, and researchers that track compliance, international partnerships, and defense-related research policy. It also underscores Washington's focus on research security involving China, Russia, and Iran as part of its wider strategic and technology protection agenda.
