The Australian Department of Defence has expanded its collaboration with metal additive manufacturing company SPEE3D, purchasing three SPEE3Dcell post-processing units to assist in ongoing military operations supporting Ukraine.
These units will complement the three WarpSPEE3D metal 3D printers that were acquired last year, enhancing the Australian Defence’s ability to support the maintenance and repair of military equipment for Ukrainian forces, SPEE3D stated in a news release.
The SPEE3Dcell is designed to machine, heat treat, and test metal parts quickly, providing critical support in battlefield environments.
The new units, along with the existing WarpSPEE3D printers, offer a comprehensive solution for on-the-ground manufacturing, helping Ukrainian soldiers maintain operational capabilities in the face of challenges such as damaged or worn equipment.
SPEE3D will also be showcasing their full Expeditionary Manufacturing Unit (EMU) at the upcoming Land Forces International Exposition in Melbourne from 11 to 13 September.
The EMU features SPEE3D’s XSPEE3D printer and SPEE3Dcell technology, housed in two mobile 20-foot shipping containers, designed to produce high-quality metal parts near the point of need.
The expo will mark the first time the EMU is displayed in Australia. Kennedy emphasized the importance of showcasing the technology at the Land Forces event, which brings together key defence stakeholders from Australia, the United States, and Europe.
“Land Forces is the premier exposition for defence in Australia, and we are excited to display our Expeditionary Manufacturing Unit (EMU) for the first time at the event,” said Byron Kennedy, CEO of SPEE3D.
The Land Forces International Exposition serves as a vital platform for the Australian Army and defence industries worldwide, providing opportunities for interaction between Defence Force representatives, prime contractors, and technology developers.
Kennedy added, “We are also proud to continue our partnership with Australian Defence, with their purchase of SPEE3Dcells to complement existing WarpSPEE3D printers. Together, they offer a complete solution for military personnel to manufacture and test metal parts in real-time and at the point of need, helping Ukrainian soldiers stay in the fight.”
