British Army uses 3D printer for the first time to produce spare parts on a large scale
The British Army has produced spare parts and modified field vehicles and equipment using 3D printers during NATO's Steadfast Defender exercise in Sennelager, Germany.
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This is a real breakthrough, as it is the first time that 3D printing technology has been used so extensively for military purposes during a NATO exercise.
3D printers have made the production of spare parts and modifications to military equipment faster and more efficient. Specialised cold metal printers developed by Spee3d allow batches of mechanical parts to be produced in just a few hours, eliminating the need for craftsmen to manually make such parts.
The successful experiment in using 3D printing technology for military purposes was part of a wider project called Brokkr, which aims to bridge the gap between on-site spare parts needs and traditional supply methods. At the same time, it reduces delivery and repair costs.
In the future, it will be possible to produce parts and repair damaged military equipment, such as tanks and artillery, without unnecessary delays.
Interestingly, Ukraine and Australia have previously successfully used Spee3d printers to solve logistics and supply problems during military operations.
Source: Ministry of Defence