Worldwide, additive layer manufacturing (ALM) or 3D-printing is recognized as a disruptive technology that can largely enhance the defense industry’s operations and military capabilities. Along with several other developments (unmanned and autonomous robotic systems, cyber capabilities, data-mining, directed-energy weapons and human performance modification), ALM is poised to alter the warfare.
ALM can fundamentally impact the defense industrial base by speeding up the pace of moving from the prototype to the production. “Agile” production lines and shorter lead time for design updates will confer to the military technologies a strategic advantage.
Simplicity of design as well, is no longer required to comply with the economic constraints. ALM of highly complex parts is feasible, faster and needs less material which stimulates the creativity of engineers and performance of products.
After-war, ALM can greatly help local communities and ease the conduct of disaster relief or reconstruction missions by printing customized parts and maintain strategic equipment.
Spartacus3D considers additive manufacturing as a key cross-cutting technology to enhance capabilities of the defense industry.