Revolutionizing Defense Manufacturing: The Future of Additive Manufacturing in the Digital Age
In the ongoing quest for innovation and efficiency, the defense industry is increasingly turning to additive manufacturing (AM) as a game-changer in its production processes. The American Department of Defense (DoD) is at the forefront of this trend, actively seeking to integrate AM technologies into critical applications to enhance military preparedness, improve flexibility, and reduce production cycles.
A Seat at the Table: The Rise of Additive Manufacturing in Defense
The 2024 report by Am Research, "Military Additive Manufacturing 2024," predicts that the US DoD will directly invest over $2.6 billion in 3D printing by 2030. This significant investment underscores the critical role AM is playing in transforming the way the defense industry operates.
Unpacking the Benefit: How 3D Printing is Revolutionizing Defense Manufacturing
One of the most exciting developments in the AM landscape is the Navy’s initiative to accelerate the certification of additive manufacturing materials and printing methods. In a session titled "Adjusting Manufacturing Offers Transformative Opportunities for the American Department of Defense and the US Navy," experts Ashley Totin and Peter Dinicola of BlueForge Alliance will delve into the Navy’s plans to authenticate nine material-process combinations in just three years, reducing the Certification period from what can take over a decade in traditional aerospace fields.
Another intriguing case study is the deployment of a hybrid manufacturing center based on a ship to resolve the challenges of part sourcing. Jeremy Heerdink of Snowbird Technologies will present "Hybrid Manufacturing Center Deployed Based on Ships to Resolve Part Sourcing Challenges," showcasing how their Meltio system, equipped with directional energy deposition technology, can restore a critical reverse osmosis pump in just 34 hours – much faster than traditional part replacement.
The US Army is also at the forefront of AM adoption, with an advanced assessment of the manufacture of weapons and additive ammunition. Delín Quijano and Jason Mercurio of the DevCom Ordnance Center of the US Army will present "Additive Manufacturing Approach to the US Army," providing a detailed introduction to the latest research in ammunition component production for additive manufacturing and describing the Army’s efforts to modernize its organic industrial base using AM solutions.
Technical Exchange Review: A Platform for Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration
To facilitate knowledge sharing and collaboration, the American Manufacturing Association is hosting its Technical and Exchange Review (TRX) in association with Rapid + TCT. This event provides project managers and researchers with a platform to share progress in government, industry, and academic additive manufacturing initiatives. Notable sessions include "Hybrid Manufacturing to Facilitate the Manufacture and Maintenance of Rapid Molds" and "Additive Manufacturing of Directional Energy Deposition to Facilitate Mold Repair," which will demonstrate the progress of repair and maintenance solutions in defense applications.
Rounding Out the Event: The Full Shebang of Rapid + TCT
By attending Rapid + TCT 2025, attendees will have access to the entire ecosystem of additive manufacturing, including executive panels, exhibitions, and social events. Whether you’re an industry leader, innovator, or stakeholder, this event offers unparalleled opportunities to explore the latest developments in AM technology and its applications in defense manufacturing.
In this digital age, the future of defense manufacturing is being reshaped by the power of additive manufacturing. Join the conversation and uncover the latest breakthroughs in transforming defense production, from ship-based 3D printing to modernizing weapons development. Stay ahead of the curve and be part of the revolution that’s changing the face of defense manufacturing.
