WASHINGTON (Realist English). The U.S. Army is increasing its use of additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, to repair equipment directly on the battlefield, Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll said this week.
The technology, already used to maintain infantry squad vehicles and M777 lightweight howitzers, enables units to produce replacement parts on-site rather than wait for delivery from distant factories. Driscoll said the move allows commanders “to take on that risk … to get things back on and get them back into the hands of our soldiers,” according to Breaking Defense.
Under new guidelines, commanders are authorized to approve 3D-printed parts for immediate deployment, potentially reducing downtime for weapons systems sidelined by minor component failures. Even small parts, such as vehicle door handles, can now be fabricated in the field.
Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George said the approach has already improved the quality and speed of repairs, noting that in some cases 3D-printed components have outperformed the originals.
Driscoll highlighted the strategic importance of additive manufacturing in regions like the Indo-Pacific, where long supply lines pose logistical challenges. He also forecast greater funding for the technology in the Army’s fiscal 2027 budget, citing its relevance in a potential protracted conflict with China.
“Our ability to manufacture physical parts or software updates in near real time is going to be crucial,” Driscoll said.