AML3D has installed its first portable, containerized ARCEMY metal 3D printing system at the US Navy’s Additive Manufacturing Centre of Excellence.
military
Growing Military Demand Drives Strategic Pivot Across 3D Printing Companies
It seems every other story we write these days involves a military application.
DIANA Initiative Aims to Transform Naval Logistics With On-Demand 3D Printing
ROBOZE announced an unusual arrangement with the Italian military.
UK Launches Inquiry Into Security Risks of Chinese-Made 3D Printing Equipment
The UK is now investigating the use of Chinese 3D printers by its military.
Secret Decentralized 3D Printing Networks Supply Drone Parts to Ukraine at Scale
I’m reading a fascinating glimpse into a hidden world of military manufacturing using desktop 3D printers.
Fort Liberty Washing Machines and 3D Printing
Charles R. Goulding and Nimra Shakoor highlight how a single soldier’s 3D-printed fix at Fort Liberty turned a supply chain problem into a low-cost, high-impact solution.
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.
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.
Velo3D Becomes First Qualified Army Ground Vehicle AM Vendor
Velo3D says it has become the first qualified metal additive manufacturing vendor for the US Army’s ground vehicle program, a sign the service wants faster pathways from “cool demo” to approved sustainment parts.
Penn State And ARL Unveil LAMAR Robotic DED
Penn State and the US Army Research Laboratory (ARL) have introduced LAMAR, a large-format robotic Directed Energy Deposition (DED) platform aimed at faster metal additive research and process control.
Velo3D Signs US Army Agreement On LPBF
Velo3D has struck a new agreement with the U.S. Army to accelerate qualification of metal 3D printed parts that could relieve ground-vehicle supply bottlenecks.
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.
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.
Indian Army Deploys Mobile 3D Concrete Printing System to Rebuild Border Infrastructure
The Indian Army has been using a remote 3DCP solution to rebuild border infrastructure.
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.
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
UltiMaker Launches S6 and S8 Secure 3D Printers for High-Security Environments
UltiMaker finally introduced the secure version of their flagship 3D printer.
Authentise and Kform Partner to Launch DDNA Workflow Platform for Defense Manufacturing
Authentise announced an important partnership with Kform to develop “DDNA”.
Israel Allegedly Used 3D Printing Inside Iran for Covert Drone Manufacturing
It appears that 3D printing was extensively used by Israel in the conflict in Iran.
AML3D Establishes U.S. Presence Amid Growing Demand for Domestic Metal 3D Printing
AML3D opened a new technology facility in the US.
Chicago Additive’s AMOS High-Speed Desktop 3D Printers After Naval Collaboration
I’m reading about a new line of desktop 3D printers from Chicago Additive, AMOS.
Australian Cold Spray Specialist Titomic Establishes U.S. Base and Strengthens Defense Focus
Titomic has taken another step into the United States.
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.
UltiMaker’s S8 Secure: Could Secure 3D Printers Be the Next Trend?
UltiMaker has a new 3D printer you probably haven’t heard about: the S8 Secure.
xCell by Firestorm Labs Demonstrates Battlefield 3D Printing Capabilities
Firestorm Labs uses 3D printing in a very different way.
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.
Oshkosh Corporation Wins Big at CES 2025—And 3D Printing Is Key to Its Success
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi unearth how Oshkosh Corporation’s award-winning HARR-E™ and advanced 3D printing initiatives are revolutionizing the specialty vehicle industry while unlocking R&D tax credit opportunities.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.