Advances in Additive Manufacturing Application in Military Industry

Additive manufacturing (AM) is recognized as a valuable method for producing functional parts in many global industries. It has been increasingly applied even in military manufacturing companies due to its specific characteristics. What started as a simple technique several decades ago, mostly used for rapid prototyping, now takes an important place in military industry when it comes to producing completely functional parts and mechanisms for weapon and different types of equipment. Understanding of different 3D printing methods and compatible materials allows engineers to create standard parts with reduced manufacturing costs and parts that are difficult to machine. One of the crucial benefits of 3D printing application in military industry is flexibility in manufacturing process, especially in terms of production site mobility. That literally means that it is now possible for soldiers to create new parts on 3D printers directly in battlefield, just by receiving right files for 3D printing from engineers. This paper reviews advances in AM application for military industry through different examples of 3D printed weapon and military equipment. Relevant 3D printing technologies are described, along with the discussion of potential problems in this area of manufacturing and possible solutions. The perspective of this method was analyzed based on current challenges, compatibility with experimental techniques and numerical methods, along with some suggestions for modernization and new areas of military application.