Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi discuss how Florida’s innovative SkillBridge initiative connects transitioning service members with employers seeking skilled talent to help meet growing production demands and record aerospace backlogs.
defense
The Meteoric Rise of the Czechoslovak Group Amid the Ukraine War
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi analyze CSG’s rapid expansion, acquisitions, and production surge driven by the Ukraine conflict and shifting global supply chains. The Czechoslovak Group (CSG) is one of the fastest-growing defense manufacturers in Europe today. What makes its story notable is not just scale, but speed. In roughly a decade, it has… Continue reading The Meteoric Rise of the Czechoslovak Group Amid the Ukraine War
JetZero and Airplane Manufacturing Disruption
Charles R. Goulding and Nimra Shakoor examine how JetZero is combining advanced materials, 3D printing, and AI to reshape aircraft production and fuel efficiency.
America’s Submarine Surge: How Additive Manufacturing Is Powering the Golden Fleet
Charles R. Goulding and Andressa Bonafe explore how workforce scaling, new production models, and R&D incentives are converging to power the next era of U.S. naval dominance.
Protracted Wars and Delayed Reconstruction
Charles R. Goulding and Leah Nabangi trace how prolonged conflicts are accelerating 3D printing breakthroughs, setting the stage for a powerful postwar “peace dividend.”
Dallas, Texas Is a Drone and 3D Printing Place to Be
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how Dallas, Texas, has quietly become a national hotspot where drone manufacturing and 3D printing converge to drive rapid innovation, scalable production, and defense-focused growth.
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base: Ohio’s Tech Powerhouse Meets 3D Printing Innovation
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi report on how Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is pushing additive manufacturing from the lab to the flight line with real, deployable 3D printed parts.
From Procurement to Production: The Pentagon’s US$1 Billion Bet on Capacity
Charles R. Goulding and Nimra Shakoor explain how L3Harris’ decades-long commitment to 3D printing helped position it at the center of a new government-backed model for defense readiness.
Velo3D Lands US$11.5M Defense Production Deal
Velo3D has won an US$11.5 million contract to deliver metal additive components for a US defense prime’s program moving into full-rate production.
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions: Additive Manufacturing Powers the Future of Defense and Space
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi take a closer look at how Kratos leverages additive manufacturing to move faster, reduce costs, and support next-generation defense and space systems.
NDAA 2026 Expands Additive Manufacturing Mandates While Banning Use of Chinese-Made AM Equipment
The new US National Defense Authorization Act includes quite a few statements on additive manufacturing, some of which will affect product sales.
Reshaping Aerospace Supply Chains: Inside the TriMas–Tinicum Transaction
Charles R. Goulding and Andressa Bonafe explain how Tinicum’s buyout of TriMas Aerospace signals a push toward smarter, more agile manufacturing where additive tech becomes a quiet force multiplier.
Materialise CEO Outlines Key Trends Driving Additive Manufacturing Toward Mainstream Adoption
Materialise CEO Brigitte de Vet-Veithen listed her thoughts on the trends in additive manufacturing.
War in Ukraine Accelerates Demand for Additive Manufacturing as Drone Production Scales Up
While the war in Ukraine may be far away for many Fabbaloo readers, its shadow is covering many 3D print companies.
The New European Space Giant and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding explores how the merger of Airbus, Leonardo, and Thales could forge a new European space powerhouse — and why 3D printing is the technology holding it all together.
Korea’s Big Shipyard Moves Into U.S. Navy Work — And the 3D-Printing Edge
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how South Korea’s bold push into U.S. Navy shipyards is bringing advanced 3D printing technologies to the heart of American shipbuilding.
America’s Largest Shipbuilder Rethinks the Yard: How HII and 23 Partners Are Reinventing Naval Production
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi set sail through the US Navy’s most ambitious shipbuilding program in decades, which involves Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) and 23 shipbuilders.
Archer Aviation’s Defense Pivot Is a Manufacturing Pivot Powered by 3D Printing
In this article, Anthony Palumbo and Charles Goulding assess Archer Aviation’s push into defense, driven by the Overair IP acquisition and its Anduril and AFWERX programs, showing how additive manufacturing and AM-for-composites compress design-to-flight cycles, reduce weight, and enable distributed sustainment for next-generation eVTOLs.
From Printer to Payload: Additive Manufacturing’s Role in the U.S. Drone Surge
Charles Goulding and Anthony Palumbo explore how AeroVironment’s integration of additive manufacturing, autonomous systems, and battlefield feedback is transforming modern warfare under the U.S. Drone Dominance doctrine.
Norway’s US$13.5 Billion Frigate Purchase and the Role of 3D Printing in Naval Defense
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi reveal how Norway’s $13.5 billion frigate purchase from BAE Systems underscores the nation’s central role in NATO’s maritime defense while highlighting how 3D printing is transforming shipbuilding and strengthening allied naval capabilities.
Desktop Metal Relaunches Under New Ownership, Targeting Defense and Energy Applications
It looks like Desktop Metal has arisen.
Metal 3D Printing Sees Rising Adoption in Military and Defense Applications
It appears the major area for metal 3D printing applications could become military. For a long while the major (and most profitable) areas were aerospace, healthcare and dental. The latter two were driven by the need for customization: you can’t mass manufacture identical dental aligners, for example. They need to match the patient. Aerospace was… Continue reading Metal 3D Printing Sees Rising Adoption in Military and Defense Applications
From Blue Water to Blueprints: The Coast Guard’s Tech Revolution Begins
Charles R. Goulding and Kate Esposito tred uncharted waters on how the One Big Beautiful Bill is reshaping the Coast Guard with historic funding and cutting-edge 3D printing technology.
Hanwha Philly Shipyard: Anchoring the Future of Shipbuilding with 3D Printing
Preeti Sulibhavi and Jacob Nolan set sail on a journey to discover Hanwha Philly Shipyard and its increasing use of 3D printing.
How Quantum-Systems’ 3D Printing Strategy Redefines Modern Warfare
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi divulge how Quantum-Systems’ embrace of 3D printing is transforming drone design, defense readiness, and supply chain resilience—propelling the company from Munich to the frontlines of modern warfare.
AML3D Establishes U.S. Presence Amid Growing Demand for Domestic Metal 3D Printing
AML3D opened a new technology facility in the US.
FN Herstal’s High-Tech Firepower: Additive Manufacturing Takes Aim
Charles R. Goulding and Aaron Rofe explore how FN Herstal is reshaping the firearms industry through additive manufacturing, innovative materials, and strategic partnerships that blend tradition with cutting-edge technology.
Golden Dome Rising: 3D Printing Powers Trump’s US$175B Space Defense Vision
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how President Trump’s Golden Dome missile defense plan is accelerating the fusion of 3D printing and aerospace innovation.
From Slides to Supplies: Big Consulting Eyes 3D Printing for Growth
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi underscore how top consulting firms are pivoting toward 3D printing in response to shrinking federal contracts and rising demand in defense and industry.
From Nose Gear to Net Zero: Safran’s 3D Printing Revolution in Aviation
Charles R. Goulding and Andressa Bonafe spotlight Safran and how it is leveraging 3D printing and cutting-edge manufacturing to lead Europe’s aerospace and defense transformation, amid a surge in defense spending.
European Defense Stocks Soar Amid New Military Spending Wave
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi visit Europe’s US$840 billion “ReArm Europe” plan and how it is driving defense contractor growth and reshaping regional military investment strategies.
From Layoffs to Liftoff: The Role of 3D Printing in Huntsville’s Economic Comeback
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how Huntsville, Alabama, is leveraging 3D printing and emerging technologies to counter workforce reductions and drive economic resilience.
Arctic Strong: Denmark’s Defense Boost and the 3D Printing Revolution
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how Denmark’s increased defense budget and cutting-edge 3D printing technologies are fortifying Greenland and supporting global stability.
Embraer’s Ascent: A Rising Contender Amid Boeing and Airbus Woes
Charles R. Goulding and Andressa Bonafe explore how Embraer’s innovative manufacturing strategies, including additive manufacturing, position the Brazilian aerospace giant as a formidable competitor amid Boeing and Airbus’ struggles.
U.S.-Japan Alliance Strengthens: Defense, Steel, and Energy Take Center Stage
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi analyze the pivotal discussions between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, exploring how advancements in 3D printing, strategic corporate investments, and energy cooperation are shaping the future of U.S.-Japan relations.
From Titanium to Tech: ATI’s Role in the Future of Additive Manufacturing
Charles R. Goulding and Peter Saenz explore how ATI’s strategic focus on metallurgy and additive manufacturing positions it at the forefront of nuclear energy revival, defense innovation, and sustainable supply chain solutions.
The Navy’s Manhattan Project: How Additive Manufacturing is Reshaping Submarine Construction
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how the U.S. Navy is leveraging 3D printing to modernize its submarine fleet, revamp the maritime industrial base, and drive innovation in defense manufacturing.
Collaboration and Innovation: 3D Printing’s Impact on European Defense
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how Airbus, Dassault, Rolls-Royce, and others are using additive manufacturing to drive military innovation and enhance European security.
From Predator Drones to Fusion Energy: The Cutting-Edge Technologies of General Atomics
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how General Atomics is revolutionizing aerospace, defense, and energy with groundbreaking 3D printing and advanced composites technologies.
From Budgets to Battlefields: How 3D Printing Powers NATO’s Defense Future
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how NATO’s push for increased defense spending and the adoption of additive manufacturing technologies are transforming military strategies and sparking debates across member states.
Supernova Secures DoD Contract to 3D Print Energetic Materials
News from Supernova shows a new application set for explosive growth.
Titomic’s Journey: From Volatile Valuations to Defense Sector Success
I thought I’d talk about Titomic today, a company not as well known as it should be.
Unmanned and Unstoppable: The Rise of Autonomous Swarming Drone Systems
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi consider how Rheinmetall and Auterion are transforming modern warfare with AI-driven, 3D-printed autonomous drone systems that redefine battlefield strategy and efficiency.
2024: The Year 3D Printing Transformed Industries Amid Global Upheaval
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi reveal how 3D printing technology surged forward, reshaping defense, healthcare, and other sectors despite global economic pressures.
SPEE3D’s CSAM Prints Metal Parts in Sub-Zero Environments
As proven during the Office of The Secretary of Defense Manufacturing Technology’s Point of Need Challenge (PON).
The Pentagon’s Secret Weapon: 3D Printing and Its Role in National Security
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how 3D printing is revolutionizing U.S. defense manufacturing, reducing reliance on Chinese imports, and unlocking new opportunities for innovation and security.
Teledyne and Excelitas: Powering the Future of Aerospace, Defense, and Industrial Tech
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi divulge how Teledyne Technologies’ acquisition of Excelitas for $710 million brings advanced photonics and optics innovations into its portfolio, enhancing its capabilities in aerospace, defense, and industrial applications.
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.
Unlocking Billions: How Europe Aims to Boost Defense R&D with Dual-Use Technologies
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi take a deeper dive into how the current rise in geopolitical tensions has fueled Europe’s defense spending, opening new opportunities for dual-use technologies that bridge civilian and military innovations.
From War to Wealth: The $52 Billion Impact on Defense Contractors and Innovation
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how a US$52 billion cash surge is challenging defense contractors to choose between short-term gains and long-term innovation in the wake of global conflicts.
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.
From Missiles to Mars: How 3D Printing is Transforming Aerospace
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi explore how Ursa Major’s innovative use of 3D printing is reshaping the defense industry, with implications for rocket motor production and beyond.
Striking Out? How Boeing’s Suppliers Are Navigating the Industry Shake-Up
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi consider how Boeing’s suppliers, facing industry disruptions and potential strikes, are turning to submarines, defense, HVAC, and 3D printing to diversify and reduce dependency on the aerospace giant.
The Oculus Innovator’s New Frontier: Palmer Luckey’s Anduril and the Future of Defense
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi dive into the revolutionary use of 3D printing at Anduril Industries, the latest venture of Oculus founder, Palmer Luckey.
High-Tech Shield: Six Nations Unite with Drones and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi delve into the formation of a new Drone Defense Line by six European nations, leveraging cutting-edge drone technology and 3D printing to bolster defenses along the Russian border.
Forging the Future of Defense: MBDA’s Multi-Country Approach and 3D Printing Prowess
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi discuss how MBDA is transforming European defense with groundbreaking 3D printing technology and strategic partnerships across the continent.
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.
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.
From Neutrality to NATO: Finland’s Bold Move and the Role of 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi describe how Finland is transforming its defense strategy by integrating 3D printing technology, enhancing military readiness and innovation in response to geopolitical challenges.
From SLM Solutions to Nikon SLM Solutions: Rebranding and Success
At Rapid+TCT last week we had a chat with SLM Solutions and discussed the company’s integration with Nikon.
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.
Australian Defence Department Orders Experimental Metal Parts from Aurora Labs
Aurora Labs announced an important government order.
Saying No to Defense Contracts and 3D Printing: Navigating Risks in a Changing Landscape
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi examine the intricate landscape of defense contracts amidst economic risks and legal complexities.
Stifel and ASTRO America Fund 3D Printing for Defense
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi discuss the newly established and groundbreaking “AM Forward Critical Technologies SBIC” fund.
3D Printing’s Pivotal Role in Strengthening National Defense
Charles R. Goulding and Jacob Nolan discuss the US Department of Defense’s strategic integration of 3D printing.
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.
Top 3D Printing Developments of 2023
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi reflect on some noteworthy 3D printing developments that were covered in 2023.
Houston Emerges as a Hub for 3D Printing Innovation Across Industries
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi highlight industries that are flourishing in Houston, Texas.
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.
NATO’s Innovation Fund: Paving the Future with 3D Printing in Defense Startups
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi discuss NATO’s groundbreaking Innovation Fund which aims to propel defense startups.
Nexa3D Set to Acquire Essentium, Expanding Its Reach in 3D Printing Technologies
There’s big news in the corporate world: Nexa3D announced plans to acquire Essentium.
Stratasys and the Impacts of Military Mobilization in Israel
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi discuss Stratasys’ relationship with the Israeli military and what the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict means for Israeli tech startups.
The Rising Role of 3D Printing in Aerospace and Defense Manufacturing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi take a closer look at BAE Systems’ recent acquisition of Ball Aerospace and how 3D printing can play a role.
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 Printing’s Role in Advancing Defense Technology and Equipment
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi remark on Sweden’s recent admittance into NATO and how 3D printing can be leveraged for the defense budget.
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.
Essentium Launches EPOD: A Polymer-to-Part 3D Print Service
Essentium’s in-house 3D print service is up and running.
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.
Finland: Fortifying and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Lara Tomiko look at how Finland has organized to significantly grow their 3D printing activity.
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.
General Dynamics, Patriotism And 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi consider patriotic implications of 3D printing in defense applications.
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.
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.
Traps For The Unwary In Launching Additive Manufacturing Globally
Charles R. Goulding invites expert attorney Bob Ward to examine industrial 3D printing impacts from trade laws.
A New Additive Manufacturing Program In Ohio Wins NCDMM And CST $9.4 Million
The MAAM program intends to commercialize the world’s largest additive manufacturing machine for the production of large parts to be used in industry and for defense.
DoD Funds Ambitious High-Volume Additive Manufacturing Process Development
As additive manufacturing continues to work toward high-volume applications, major institutions have taken notice — not just in industry, but in government departments.
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.
Sourcing US Grid Components And 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi dig into the potential use of 3D printing for sourcing the US power grid.
Black Hawk Twinned
Digital twin creation of the US Army’s Black Hawk helicopters will bring new life into the out-of-production aircraft.
5 Industries That Benefit From Ceramics 3D Printing
What makes ceramics such a valuable 3D printing material? Here’s how it’s benefiting five essential industries.
3D Printing Weapons of Mass Destruction? Inevitable or Controllable?
Could 3D printing be used to manufacture weapons of mass destruction? Is additive manufacturing dangerous? We have thoughts.
