As proven during the Office of The Secretary of Defense Manufacturing Technology’s Point of Need Challenge (PON).
military
US Army Scientists 3D Print Using Ice Reinforced with Natural Fibers
The goal was to find innovative ways to build military installations in remote cold regions.
Formnext 2024 Highlights: Financial Stress, Industry Shifts, and Emerging Innovators
Formnext 2024 has concluded, and I have some thoughts.
Future Flight: Bell’s 3D Printing Advances and the Army’s Tiltrotor Transformation
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi examine Bell’s use of 3D printing to propel the U.S. Army’s next-gen tiltrotor capabilities.
ADDiTEC Successfully Tests Liquid Metal 3D Printing Aboard US Navy Ship
Interesting news from ADDiTEC: they’ve successfully tested LMJ liquid metal 3D printing on board a US Navy ship.
Aurora Labs Partners with Defense Firm to 3D Print UAV Propulsion Systems
Aurora Labs announced a new partnership to 3D print propulsion systems.
Iron Dome’s Secret Weapon: 3D Printing Powers Rafael’s Defense Arsenal
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi uncover how Rafael is leveraging 3D printing technology to accelerate production, streamline repairs, and maintain its edge in the global defense industry.
Soldier Creates Functional Part with No Prior Experience Using SPEE3D’s Metal 3D Printer
SPEE3D just did something that shouldn’t normally be possible.
Supernova Launches Defense Unit to 3D Print Advanced Rocket Motors
Supernova announced a new business unit dedicated to the development of “military grade” materials for additive manufacturing.
War Game Sees Nearly a Dozen Metal Additive Parts Printed for Repair or Replacement
Part of the RIMPAC exercise, Trident Warrior focuses on testing new defense technologies.
From Prototypes to Powerhouses: 3D Printing and the New Defense Lattice
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi discover how 3D printing is transforming defense strategies in the Asia-Pacific, strengthening alliances, and shaping the future of regional security.
SPEE3D’s Byron Kennedy Discusses CSAM Technology and Military Applications
I had a chat with SPEE3D CEO Byron Kennedy about their latest equipment and experiences.
Meet Halo: The Self-Assembling, Hyper-Efficient Metal 3D Printer from Rosotics
A rather unusual metal 3D printer has been announced by Rosotics, the Halo.
Craitor FieldFab: The World’s Most Rugged 3D Printer
We had a close look at what is no doubt the world’s most rugged 3D printer, the Craitor FieldFab.
The Role of 3D Printing in Transforming the EU Defense Industry Amidst the Ukraine War
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi discuss how the Ukraine war is transforming the EU defense industry, driving a surge in 3D printing adoption for rapid prototyping and on-demand production.
AML3D Expands to U.S. with New Ohio Manufacturing Hub
AML3D is reaching into the US with a new manufacturing base.
3YOURMIND Partners with US Army to Digitize Inventory for M113 Armored Vehicle Parts
3YOURMIND struck an interesting deal with the US Army.
SPEE3D Unveils EMU: A Comprehensive 3D Printing Solution for Military Field Operations
SPEE3D announced something they call the EMU, or “Expeditionary Manufacturing Unit”.
FieldFab by Craitor: A Rugged 3D Printer for Military and Field Operations
Today I’m looking at a 3D printer I haven’t seen previously, the FieldFab by Craitor.
3D-Printed Valve Assemblies Now in Production for US Navy Submarines
Fairbanks Morse Defense will produce a 70-lb copper-nickel valve assembly made with additive manufacturing in a fraction of the time compared to sand casting.
Innovating Aerospace: JuggerBot 3D’s Hybrid 3D Printer Blends Pellets with Resin
JuggerBot 3D is to develop a unique hybrid 3D printer using both pellets and resin.
Xerion’s Fusion Factory XS: Portable Metal 3D Printing for Military Use
Xerion’s Fusion Factory XS is one of the most interesting professional 3D printers we’ve yet seen.
US Department of Defense Could Amplify 3D Printing Use Amid Global Tensions
The US Department of Defense is set to dramatically expand its use of 3D printing.
America Makes Awards $1.2M to Winners of EARTH Project
In partnership with NCDMM, the project is funded by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense, Research and Engineering Manufacturing Technology Office and the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL).
Advancing Military 3D Printing: 1000 Kelvin and Fieldmade Form Strategic Partnership
1000 Kelvin announced today they have established a very intriguing partnership with Fieldmade.
Top 3D Printing Developments of 2023
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi reflect on some noteworthy 3D printing developments that were covered in 2023.
3D Printing Revolution in Defense: Enhancing Weaponry in Two Global Conflicts
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi discuss how 3D printing advancements are aiding the US and its allies in addressing conflicts by enabling rapid and innovative production of military equipment.
Ukraine Employs 3D Printing in Defense Sector, Strengthening Military Production
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi discuss how the ongoing conflict in Ukraine is driving the country’s transformation of industrial capabilities to boost the domestic defense sector.
3D4Israel’s Grassroots Effort: Over 300 Volunteers 3D Printing Essential Adapters for IDF
A grassroots organization in Israel is 3D printing items for the IDF.
From Rumors to Reality: SPEE3D’s Role in Ukraine’s 3D Printing Strategy
We now know a lot more about the mysterious 3D printers supplied to Ukraine.
Rapid Military Support: Essentium’s 3D Printers Deployed in Ukraine
Essentium announced a very unusual deployment of their additive manufacturing equipment — in Ukraine.
The Ukraine Conflict’s Ripple Effect on Additive Manufacturing
There’s a shift in manufacturing happening due to world events, but are we seeing a corresponding change in additive manufacturing?
Rheinmetall Quickly Becomes a Defense Powerhouse
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how 3D printing has helped to propel Rheinmetall from a middle-sized defense contractor to a leading global defense contractor.
3D Print Army: 3D Printing Network Aids Ukraine’s Defense
An operation in Ukraine has created a community network for 3D printing military components.
Speculation on the Industrial 3D Printers Deployed in Ukraine
The US has revealed it has provided Ukraine with some type of industrial 3D printers, but what does this mean?
3D Printing for the Frontline: SPEE3D’s Breakthrough Military Demonstration
SPEE3D has demonstrated their AM capability in war — almost.
From Wedding Drones to War Drones: Ukraine’s Unconventional 3D Printing Pivot
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi examine how 3D printer applications shift in times of war.
US Department of Defense Selects Meltio as Key Partner in 3D Printing
Meltio has been selected by the US Department of Defense as a strategic partner.
The Role of 3D Printing in Tackling Labor Shortages in the Defense Industry
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi foresee increased use of 3D printing in defense applications.
Aukus Pact’s Underwater Innovation: The Power of 3D Printing for Nuclear Submarines
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi look at submarine production possibilities with 3D printing technology.
A 3D printed PSI of hope in Ukraine
Implanting even a large skull section may seem like a relatively small victory in the dramatic context of the ongoing war but it’s making a huge difference in this soldier’s life.
SPEE3D’s Supersonic 3D Printing Tech Gaining Traction with Military Sectors
Something very interesting is happening at SPEE3D.
Military Conflict: Using 3D Printing Technology to Boost Ukraine’s Armaments
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi believe there is a key role for 3D printing in the Ukraine conflict.
Carver Pump partners with IperionX to produce AM parts for the US Navy
The US currently has no domestic capacity to traditionally manufacture the large titanium pump castings, and is therefore turning to AM as the solution.
How Hybrid CNC Metal 3D Printing Could Revolutionize Marine Operations
Marine use of 3D print technology should be booming, but it isn’t, at least not yet.
Aidro’s Digital Lab Supplies 3D Printed Parts to Leonardo Helicopters
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi see much 3D printing from a new US military contract.
SmartZavod Takes on a Lifesaving Mission in the Midst of War
A 3D print entrepreneur faces huge challenges in Ukraine, and has launched an important initiative.
2022: A Look At The Top 10 3D Printing Developments
Charles R. Goulding and Valentina Alzate countdown their top ten 3D print developments for 2022.
3D Printing Technology Aids General Dynamics In Ukraine Arms Deal
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi examine the opportunities opening for additive manufacturing as a result of the conflict in Ukraine.
MELD’s Hybrid Metal 3D Printer
MELD announced a new hybrid device to produce large metal parts.
Essentium’s Laser Focus on Quality
I had a chat with Essentium’s CEO, Blake Teipel the other week and learned about their increased focus on quality.
SPEE3D Announces “XSPEE3D”
SPEE3D announced a new mobile metal additive manufacturing platform, XSPEE3D.
Gulf Coast Military Shipbuilding and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi look at how 3D printing use can be increased by shipyards constructing and refurbishing vessels.
What Is MatterHackers Doing With the US Navy?
MatterHackers announced a highly unusual arrangement with the US Navy.
HIMARS and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi look at how 3D printing has been used to assist in field deployments of the now-famous HIMARS system.
U.S. Defense Spending for Ukraine and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi look at the recent increase in U.S. military production and how 3D printing takes a strong role.
3D Printing in the Military
Charles R. Goulding and Julia Wallace review the findings of a recent panel discussion on use of AM technology in the US military.
SPEE3D Looking At Marine 3D Print Applications
I spoke with SPEE3D’s CEO Byron Kennedy to learn more about the company’s intentions.
Drone Wars and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding & Harry Foxman consider potential use of 3D print technology for military drone manufacturing.
Large UK Defense Budget and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding looks at recent defense spending changes in the UK and how that may affect use of 3D printing.
Ukraine Army 3D Prints Adhoc Battlefield Weapons
It seems that the Ukraine army is using commonly available tools to create highly effective weapons, including 3D printing.
Sweden: Defense Budget Increases and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding & Ryan Donley look at potential military use of 3D printing in Sweden.
Denmark: Defense Budget Increases and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding & Ryan Donley look at Denmark’s increased use of 3D printing in the military sector.
Finland: Fortifying and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Lara Tomiko look at how Finland has organized to significantly grow their 3D printing activity.
Norway: 3D Printing for Defense, Shipping, Oil and Gas
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi look at recent developments in 3D printing in Norway.
Poland: Over 2.5 Million Refugees and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Lara Tomiko look at the need for Poland to unleash some of its 3D printing capacity due to recent events.
Germany: Defense Industry Revival and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding & Ryan Donley examine the recent change in defense strategy in Germany.
Backing Up Ukraine With Polycam
Polycam launched a key 3D service for Ukraine.
The U.S. Army and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi look at how 3D printing technology has affected military supply chains.
University of Maine 3D Prints Two Mammoth Landing Craft Vessels
The University of Maine’s Composites Center designed and 3D printed what appears to be the largest ships ever produced with the technology.
Can The Military Really Use 3D Printing?
I’ve been wondering about the actual logistics of using 3D printing in military settings, and its a bit more gray than black and white.
Australia’s Blackhawk Helicopter Purchase and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi examine how the U.S. military is using digital twins for helicopter development.
US Navy Contract Boosts MatterHackers, Ultimaker
The US Navy awarded a huge contract for 3D printing equipment to MattHackers and Ultimaker.
Stratasys Opens Doors with New ProtectAM System
Stratasys announced a new data security platform called ProtectAM.
The Stratasys Navy Deal Is Bigger Than It Appears
Stratasys announced a massive US$20M contract to deliver 3D printers to the US Navy.
What Is The Largest 3D Printed Structure In North America?
How large is the biggest 3D printed structure in North America?
New DoD Inspector General Report and 3D Printing Cyber Vulnerability
With the recent hacks into our infrastructure cyber systems, and the hefty ransom paid to the nefarious hackers, cybersecurity has come to the forefront of the political debate.
US Navy All-In On Distributed Manufacturing?
An announcement from 3YOURMIND suggests the US Navy has a very comprehensive plan for a 3D printed future.
General Dynamics, Patriotism And 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi consider patriotic implications of 3D printing in defense applications.
US Army To Build World’s Largest Metal 3D Printer
The US army has awarded a contract to a group to construct what will likely be the largest metal 3D printer ever built.
Inkbit Makes First VCJ Sale
Inkbit announced a partnership with the United States Air Force.
Senvol Gets A Funding Boost
Senvol announced new investment coming from the US military.
ExOne Awarded $1.6 Million Department Of Defense Contract For Portable 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Ryan Donley take a look at ExOne’s major foray into bringing 3D printing where it needs to be.
Pentagon Robot Technology Leapfrogging
Charles R. Goulding and Ryan Donley consider the Pentagon’s leadership in robotics, and where 3D printing plays a role.
Combining Forces In 3D Printing: The US And UK Navies
Charles R. Goulding and Ryan Donley consider two navies’ applications of additive manufacturing.
US Department of Defense Releases New Additive Manufacturing Strategy
The US Department of Defense has released a detailed strategy for their use of additive manufacturing technology in coming years.
Xerox Unveils ElemX 3D Printer Installation And Collaboration
The first Xerox metal 3D printer installation is more than a customer sale: it’s the start of a collaboration with the Naval Postgraduate School.
Air Force Issues National Call For 3D Scanner Technology
Charles R. Goulding and Ryan Donley examine Air Force demand for reverse engineering using 3D scanning and 3D printing.
The $9.5 Billion Columbia Submarine Contract And 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi examine the increasing role of additive manufacturing in Navy submarines.
Million Dollar Air Force Contract Will Repair Parts With 3D Printing
Additive manufacturing company Optomec was awarded a $1 million contract by the U.S. Air Force to repair engine turbine parts.
Five DOD-Approved Drone Suppliers & 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Peter Favata take a look at where 3D printing may come into play alongside DOD-approved drones.
Conformal Antennas And 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Adam Friedman examine the use of 3D printing in producing conformal antennas.
New Method Of Measuring Metal 3D Printed Part Strength
Researchers in the US military have developed a set of tests to determine the strength of 3D printed parts that could aid in future metal 3D printing quality control.
GE’s Additive Manufacturing Project for the U.S. Air Force Takes off
The great promise of 3D printing combined with innovative 3D design (such as generative design) is to reduce parts and material waste while creating geometry that surpasses the capability of traditional subtractive machining.
3D Printing the Strongest Steel
The US Air Force, in concert with scientists from Texas A&M University, developed a novel way of 3D printing the strongest type of steel.