Defense contractor Babcock International has been awarded a contract by the UK’s Ministry of Defence (MOD) to develop 3D printed parts for the Ukrainian military.
As part of the contract, Babcock is set to work with fellow contractor QinetiQ to create the digital drawings and CAD models necessary for 3D printing military equipment on the frontline. Making spares on-demand, as and when they’re needed, is expected to enhance the logistical support Ukrainian forces receive on the ground and improve their chances on the battlefield.
“We aim to give Ukraine the capability to recreate the military parts that they need, where and when it really matters,” said Tom Newman, CEO of Babcock’s Land Sector. “This innovation builds on our engineering expertise and technology capability, giving us further opportunities to optimize 3D printing.”
As you’d expect from such a sensitive military contract, little detail has been revealed about the nature of the military equipment that’s set to be 3D printed. But we do know the proof-of-concept project will see some older parts reverse engineered to uncover design intent. Once their functionality is fully understood, these will be manufactured as required on-demand.
Neither Babcock nor QinetiQ is exactly new to the conflict in Ukraine – both have supported the Ukrainians for some time. Babcock recently extended its Challenger 2 tank restoration and repair contract. It continues to support the country’s supply chain while training the Ukrainian military to carry out repairs themselves – its latest contract could see it operate in a similar area.
“We are delighted to be working with Babcock to support Ukraine, and are immensely proud that QinetiQ is able to draw on our world-leading expertise in technical assurance to assist,” explained Alan Hart, QinetiQ’s Managing Director of Science, Technology and Weapons.
“This latest contract demonstrates QinetiQ’s unequalled expertise in material capability assurance, and commitment to support to the frontline, whether our own or those of our allies,” he added.
Interested in finding out more about additive manufacturing in the military? Check out our exclusive SPEE3D interview. Or read about the latest US Army 3D printing R&D.
