Core Viewpoint - IperionX has secured nearly A$7 million in funding from the U.S. Department of War, part of a larger US$50 million package, along with a delivery of approximately 290 tonnes of scrap titanium metal from the U.S. government, which is crucial for its Titanium Manufacturing Campus in Virginia [1][2][4]. Group 1: Funding and Material Supply - The funding from the U.S. Department of War is the final tranche of a US$50 million package aimed at supporting IperionX's operations [1][4]. - The delivery of 290 tonnes of scrap titanium provides essential feedstock for the Titanium Manufacturing Campus, representing about 1.5 years of material throughput [2][4]. - IperionX plans to produce at least 1,400 tonnes of titanium annually to support U.S. defense supply chain goals [4]. Group 2: Market Context and Challenges - The critical mineral supply chain, particularly for titanium, is transitioning from a narrative to a structural reality, indicating a growing market interest in tensile metals [3]. - Despite positive developments, short selling pressure on IperionX shares has increased, with nearly 8% of shares currently shorted [5][8]. - The funding assurance from the U.S. government has not significantly deterred short sellers, indicating ongoing market skepticism [8].