Metal Powder Works Secures First NATO Defence Contract via UK MOD Project TAMPA

First NATO Defence Engagement for Metal Powder Works

Metal Powder Works (MPW) has been awarded a contract to support Additive Manufacturing Solutions (AMS) in delivering 3D printed components for the UK Ministry of Defence Project TAMPA programme.

The contract represents MPW first engagement with a NATO defence programme, involving the manufacture of components via Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LBPF) technology using MPW titanium powder.

What is Project TAMPA?

Project TAMPA is an MOD programme designed to assess and test additive manufacturing capability by implementing the technology for prototyping and production of existing parts within its supply chain.

In late 2024, defence supplier Babcock successfully delivered the first package of work to Project TAMPA, with the additively manufactured Light Gun eye shaft being recommended for adoption by MOD Defence Equipment and Support team.

According to Major General Phil Prosser, Director Joint Support in Defence Support of the British Army, the programme aims to place AM deeper in our supply chain, moving beyond light-scale capability for non-safety-critical parts to increasingly larger, more complex components.

Strategic Implications

MPW believes its participation positions it as a qualified US-based manufacturing node within the UK MOD strategic defence additive manufacturing supply network alongside NATO allies.

The contract validates MPW DirectPowder titanium capability for defence-grade applications and opens a significant new addressable market for the company direct powder titanium and speciality alloy capabilities.

The contract is expected to be fulfilled within the current financial year.