Key Takeaways
- The US Army's DEVCOM Armaments Center trained Marines to use 3D printing for repair electronics components repair at Valiant Shield 2026
- Additive manufacturing (AM) played a role in multiple projects during Valiant Shield and RIMPAC exercises, including 3D printed drone boats and expeditionary manufacturing
- The Manufacturing Attritable Systems at Scale (MASS) effort showcased the production of 3D printed vessels, both manned and unmanned, using a large-format polymer 3D printer and a spray foam and coating system
- The NSWCC team leveraged their experience to produce a 7-meter raiding craft, with the potential to manufacture a 5-meter platform every 4 hours and a 7-meter platform every 6 hours
Introduction to 3D Printing in Military Exercises
The recent Valiant Shield and RIMPAC exercises in the Indo-Pacific region have highlighted the growing importance of 3D printing in military operations. The US Army's DEVCOM Armaments Center and additive manufacturing (AM) software provider 3YOURMIND have partnered with various organizations to demonstrate the capabilities of 3D printing in expeditionary manufacturing.
3D Printed Drone Boats and Expeditionary Manufacturing
The Manufacturing Attritable Systems at Scale (MASS) effort has been a key focus of the exercises, with the production of 3D printed vessels, both manned and unmanned. Using a large-format polymer 3D printer and a spray foam and coating system, the NSWCC team has been able to produce multiple versions of a 7-meter raiding craft. The team has reported significant cost and time savings, with the potential to manufacture a 5-meter platform every 4 hours and a 7-meter platform every 6 hours.
Comparison of 3D Printing Methods
| Method | Time | Cost | Material |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conventional | 16 hours | $11,000 | Traditional materials |
| 3D Printing | 4-6 hours | Reduced | Polymer and spray foam |
Advantages of 3D Printing in Military Operations
The use of 3D printing in military operations offers several advantages, including:
- Rapid production of spare parts and components
- Reduced logistics and supply chain costs
- Increased flexibility and adaptability in the field
- Potential for reduced environmental impact
Conclusion
The use of 3D printing in military exercises such as Valiant Shield and RIMPAC has demonstrated the potential for additive manufacturing to revolutionize expeditionary manufacturing. With the ability to produce complex components and systems in a matter of hours, 3D printing is set to play a key role in the future of military operations.
Bottom Line
The integration of 3D printing into military operations has the potential to significantly enhance the speed and flexibility of expeditionary manufacturing, while reducing costs and environmental impact. As the technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see increased adoption of 3D printing in military exercises and operations, with the potential to transform the way that military forces operate in the field.