Nikon AM Signs US Defense Innovation Unit Contract to Solve Aeronautical Production Bottlenecks

The U.S. Department of War (DoW) Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is tackling production bottlenecks for aeronautical systems using Nikon Advanced Manufacturing's metal additive manufacturing technology.

Nikon AM, which provides engineering and manufacturing services from its technology centre in Long Beach, California, has signed an Other Transition Agreement (OTA) contract with the DIU through the Foundry for Operational Readiness and Global Effects (FORGE) program.

Replacing Cast Parts with Metal 3D Printing

The contract will focus on supporting the DIU to boost its manufacturing capacity for high-performance aeronautical systems by replacing traditionally cast parts with metal 3D printed components.

"The DIU is excited to partner with Nikon AM and leverage their extensive engineering, manufacturing and qualification capabilities as we work to expand production capacity and alleviate aeronautical component bottlenecks," said Derek McBride, DIU Program Manager.

The work will be carried out at Nikon AM's facility in Long Beach, which combines Nikon AM's laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology and advanced inspection capabilities.

Defense Sector Momentum

"As we continue to execute our holistic approach to deliver vital manufacturing capabilities to the United States and allied partners, we are proud to support the DIU in accelerating adoption and scaling of AM to strengthen warfighter readiness," said Dr. Behrang Poorganji, Nikon AM Vice President of Technology.

The partnership represents continued momentum for metal 3D printing in defense applications. In a recent conversation with TCT, Nikon AM CEO Hamid Zarringhalam emphasised the value of the company's metal AM technologies to the defence sector, stating "For sustainment of military, there is no alternative."