3D Printing in Defense

Abstract

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects by adding material layer by layer based on a digital model. It has come a long way since it was first developed in the 1980s. As in other industries, 3D printing is making its case within defense and military fields. The technology is revolutionizing the way militaries around the world procure and maintain their equipment. As 3D printing took off in recent years in the defense sectors additive manufacturing companies have been working to drive economies of scale. The military can benefit from 3D printing since the military personnel are exposed to all sorts of environments around the globe. This paper takes a look at how the defense industry has embraced 3D printing.