US Navy’s Letter of Intent Positions AML3D at Forefront of Defense 3D Printing
AML3D has received a pivotal Letter of Intent from the US Navy, outlining plans for additive manufacturing collaboration and significant demand growth through 2030.
- US Navy identifies AML3D’s ARCEMY technology as central to additive manufacturing expansion
- Forecast for 400 components in 2026 rising to 1,600 by 2030 for the Maritime Industrial Base
- Plans to install up to 100 new ARCEMY metal 3D printing systems across US Navy facilities
- Letter of Intent includes ongoing demand updates to guide AML3D’s US manufacturing growth
- AML3D’s US manufacturing capacity expected to more than double in response to Navy collaboration
A Strategic Partnership Takes Shape
AML3D Limited (ASX, AL3), an Australian leader in metal additive manufacturing, has taken a significant step forward in its US expansion strategy with the receipt of a Letter of Intent (LOI) from the US Navy. This non-binding agreement signals the Navy’s intent to collaborate closely with AML3D on additive manufacturing initiatives, particularly within the Maritime Industrial Base (MIB) program. The LOI underscores AML3D’s ARCEMY® technology as pivotal to the Navy’s ambitious plans to enhance its surface ship capabilities and in-service support through advanced manufacturing solutions.
Forecasting Growth in Additive Manufacturing Demand
The LOI reveals a forecasted demand for approximately 400 additively manufactured components in 2026, with this figure expected to quadruple to around 1,600 parts by 2030. This surge reflects the US Navy’s strategic pivot towards integrating additive manufacturing technologies to improve efficiency, reduce supply chain vulnerabilities, and accelerate maintenance and production cycles. Central to this effort is the planned installation of up to 100 ARCEMY metal 3D printing systems, positioning AML3D as a key supplier and technology partner within the Navy’s industrial ecosystem.
Implications for AML3D’s US Manufacturing Footprint
Access to the Navy’s demand intelligence, as outlined in the LOI, will enable AML3D to strategically scale its US manufacturing operations. The company anticipates more than doubling its manufacturing capacity stateside to meet the growing requirements of the Maritime Industrial Base. This expansion not only strengthens AML3D’s competitive positioning but also aligns with broader industry trends favoring localized, on-demand production capabilities that reduce logistical complexity and environmental impact.
Leadership Perspectives and Future Outlook
US Navy Deputy Program Manager Matthew D Evans expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting the mutual benefits of leveraging AML3D’s expertise to advance additive manufacturing within naval operations. AML3D CEO Sean Ebert echoed this optimism, emphasizing the company’s commitment to supporting the Navy’s additive manufacturing needs and the strategic importance of the Maritime Industrial Base partnership. The LOI sets the stage for ongoing dialogue and collaboration, with regular updates on demand forecasts expected to inform AML3D’s operational and investment decisions moving forward.
Broader Industry Context
AML3D’s patented Wire Additive Manufacturing (WAM®) process and ARCEMY® systems represent cutting-edge advancements in metal 3D printing, combining robotics, materials engineering, and software to deliver scalable, efficient manufacturing solutions. The US Navy’s endorsement through this LOI not only validates AML3D’s technology but also signals a growing defense sector appetite for innovative manufacturing approaches that promise cost savings, supply chain resilience, and environmental benefits.
Bottom Line?
AML3D’s collaboration with the US Navy could redefine additive manufacturing’s role in defense, but execution and contract finalisation remain key watchpoints.
Questions in the middle?
- When will AML3D secure binding contracts following the Letter of Intent?
- How will AML3D’s US manufacturing expansion be financed and timed?
- What competitive pressures might emerge as the US Navy scales additive manufacturing?
