In a significant advancement for military manufacturing technology, 3D Systems, a prominent player in the additive manufacturing sector, has secured a $7.65 million contract from the U.S. Air Force. This award, announced on August 26, 2025, marks a pivotal step in the development of a state-of-the-art Large-format Metal 3D Printer, designated as the Advanced Technology Demonstrator (GEN-IIDMP-1000).
This contract represents the continuation of a collaborative program that 3D Systems has engaged in since 2023, aimed at enhancing large-scale, high-speed, and flight-relevant additive manufacturing capabilities. Such advancements are anticipated to revolutionize how the Air Force approaches manufacturing, potentially reducing costs and lead times for crucial components used in various aircraft and defense systems.
The work undertaken as part of this contract will be conducted at 3D Systems? facilities in San Diego, California, and Rock Hill, South Carolina, with an expected completion date set for September 27, 2027. This timeline not only underscores the urgency associated with modernizing military capabilities but also highlights the ongoing commitment to bringing innovation to the forefront of defense technology.
In addition to bolstering the Air Force’s production capabilities, this initiative is likely to have implications beyond military applications, potentially setting the stage for civilian sectors to benefit from similar advancements in additive manufacturing. As industries worldwide shift towards more sustainable and efficient production methods, the development of high-performance 3D printing technologies paves the way for transformative changes across various sectors.
3D Systems’ role in delivering advanced manufacturing solutions positions the company at the intersection of innovation and defense. As the U.S. military continues to explore how best to integrate advanced technologies to maintain a strategic advantage, endeavors like the GEN-IIDMP-1000 contract will play a crucial role in shaping the future of military logistics and support.
As this project unfolds over the next two years, stakeholders within the defense, manufacturing, and technology sectors will be watching closely to see how these advancements in additive manufacturing could redefine traditional manufacturing paradigms and elevate the United States’ position in military readiness and capability.
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