The potential of 3D printing and its military applications, Part 1

Abstract

The article describes the application possibilities of 3D printing - as an additive manufacturing technology - with particular attention to areas such as 3D metal printing and fiber reinforced plastic printing. Nowadays, in addition to prototype production, this technology plays important role in the production of complex geometry components, complex grid structures, and sandwich structures within components, which can be used to reduce the mass of structural elements. Additive manufacturing technology - as one of the methods of supplying parts on the battlefield - can also play a role in the processes of military logistics. Regarding to the Hungarian Defense Forces, the proposals of NATO and the EDA (European Defense Agency) and the 2021 National Military Strategy previse development of 3D printing.