US Army seeks new uses for 3D printing
US Army scientists developed a dual-polymer filament that helps to produce heavy-duty printed parts. (Photo: US Army)
In addition to fast providing replacement parts and reducing the need of relying on huge warehouses or long supply chains, the technology can be used in hybrid manufacturing processes and construction as well as with together robotic and AI capacities.
Accessing 3D printing technologies can better support armed forces on the battlefield and bring many benefits for military readiness. These advantages have been pushing the US Army towards identifying new applications for these systems.
Also called additive manufacturing, 3D printing can be used in hybrid manufacturing processes, spreading the development of vital equipment and even weapons systems, in addition to fast providing replacement parts and reducing reliance on huge warehouses or long supply chains.
The US Army also seeks to apply this technology in conjunction with robotic and AI capacities.
James Zunino, Army Technical Area Chief (TAC-1) Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
![Drone Summit turns spotlight on smaller companies and new uncrewed systems]()
Drone Summit turns spotlight on smaller companies and new uncrewed systems
The Drone Summit saw more than 100 companies from 20 countries, including Latvia, Australia, Canada and Israel, presenting uncrewed surveillance and attack platforms. The event came just weeks after drones, believed to be Russian, invaded Latvia’s airspace.
-
![Tactical connectivity built for contested environments]()
Tactical connectivity built for contested environments
Modern tactical operations depend on resilient connectivity that can survive congestion, jamming, and rapidly evolving electronic warfare.
-
![May land forces roundup: counter-drone systems move up the agenda]()
May land forces roundup: counter-drone systems move up the agenda
There has been a drive towards uncrewed aerial systems and defeating them in recent weeks, with NATO exercises addressing the danger, new systems unveiled and a new Latvian counter-drone unit stood up following recent incursions.
-
![Oshkosh to reoffer its Joint Light Tactical Vehicle as US Navy issues an RfI]()
Oshkosh to reoffer its Joint Light Tactical Vehicle as US Navy issues an RfI
Oshkosh Defense is positioning for a potential return to the JLTV programme after losing out to AM General in 2023, as the US Navy is considering options for 7,500 vehicles.
-
![US Marine Corps to expand on-the-move power capabilities with MRZR Alpha 5kW]()
US Marine Corps to expand on-the-move power capabilities with MRZR Alpha 5kW
The MRZR Alpha 5kW has been designed to charge multiple battlefield systems, including active defence systems, sensor arrays, onboard electronics, UAS and CUAS equipment, and other C5ISR capabilities. The platform can also power external loads such as a forward-operating tactical grid.
