HII Newport News Shipbuilding has ordered two custom metal 3D-printing systems worth 4.5 million Australian dollars ($2.9 million) from additive manufacturer AML3D.
The new systems designed specifically for the US’ largest military shipbuilder will be based on AML3D’s ARCEMY X platform and are fitted with a 10,886-kilogram (24,000 pounds) positioner to support heavy-capacity builds.
Once operational in mid-2026, they will be used to manufacture large, complex metal components for ships and submarines, helping shorten lead times and reduce material waste compared to traditional methods.
These are the ninth and tenth ARCEMY systems ordered to support the US Navy Maritime Industrial Base. The technology allows high-strength, corrosion-resistant metal parts to be produced more efficiently and with reduced environmental impact.
AML3D CEO Sean Ebert said the company has a “huge opportunity” to expand further into US Navy shipbuilding and munitions.
Additive Manufacturing Gains Ground
The adoption of 3D-printing technologies by US defense contractors has accelerated as the navy seeks to modernize maintenance and production. These efforts align with the Pentagon’s broader push to strengthen supply chain resilience and cut production timelines for critical systems.
HII and General Dynamics Electric Boat have both incorporated metal additive manufacturing into submarine and surface ship programs, producing parts for the Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines.
In August, the US Navy introduced new 3D printing systems aimed at reshaping battlefield logistics by enabling on-site production of critical components, reducing dependence on long supply chains.
Developed with the US Marine Corps, the technology can manufacture everything from small fittings to heavy titanium parts as needed, with additional supplies deliverable through drones or unmanned surface vessels.
