The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) invests in basic research to encourage progress in science and technology fields that are likely to contribute to national defense. DoD also has a long history of international engagement on basic research. While the United States, including DoD, has traditionally supported openness in basic research, concerns are growing that U.S. openness in basic research might be unduly aiding strategic competitors, particularly China. Recognizing the importance of basic research to its mission and the changing risks and benefits that it faces, DoD seeks a better understanding of its place in the international basic research ecosystem and strategic and scientific considerations for DoD international basic research collaborations. DoD is also interested in suggestions for improving how it uses international basic research collaborations.

The research reported here was completed in January 2022 and underwent security review with the sponsor and the Defense Office of Prepublication and Security Review before public release.