The US Army is stepping up its use of additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, to repair small equipment directly on the battlefield, Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll said.
Additive manufacturing allows units to fix critical components quickly without relying on distant factories, and has already been used to maintain tactical platforms, including infantry squad vehicles and M777 lightweight 155-millimeter howitzers.
Driscoll told reporters that the step will allow “generals to take on that risk … to get things back on and get them back into the hands of our soldiers,” Breaking Defense reported.
Faster Repairs, Greater Efficiency
Under the new guidance, commanders are authorized to approve 3D-printed parts for immediate deployment. It would address numerous weapons systems that were previously inoperable due to minor components that could have been produced on-site.
Even minor parts, including door handles on infantry vehicles, will be repaired and returned to service without delay.
Highlighting the impact of this approach, US Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George said past additive manufacturing efforts have improved both the quality and speed of repairs and that some 3D-printed parts may even exceed the quality of the originals.
Strategic Value and Future Plans
Driscoll further emphasized the strategic importance of additive manufacturing, particularly in regions like the Indo-Pacific, where vast distances complicate logistics.
Driscoll also predicted that additive manufacturing will receive increased funding in the fiscal year 2027 budget, citing concerns over a potential conflict with China.
“If you think of us in a protracted war with a peer or near-peer [adversary], our manufacturing, our ability to either manufacture physical things or software, the ability to update in near real time, is going to be crucial,” he stated.
