Velo3D, a leading innovator in metal additive manufacturing (AM) technology, announced its participation in a U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Aviation & Missile Center (DEVCOM AvMC) and Manufacturing & Sustainment (M&S) program-funded initiative. The program is dedicated to advancing high-throughput, cost-effective additive manufacturing processes for Aluminum CP1, aimed at strengthening U.S. defense supply chains.
In collaboration with RTX and the Raytheon Technologies Research Center (RTRC), Velo3D is developing an optimized laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) process for Aluminum CP1. The project directly supports the U.S. Army’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) modernization priorities, which emphasize agility, affordability, and operational readiness. By leveraging Velo3D’s large-format AM platform, the initiative seeks to create a repeatable and scalable manufacturing process deployable across multiple defense programs and facilities.
Leadership Perspectives
“Velo3D’s metal AM platform was selected by (DEVCOM) AvMC and M&S for its differentiated capabilities that overcome the traditional constraints of legacy L-PBF systems,” said Dr. Arun Jeldi, CEO of Velo3D. “Through a fully integrated software and hardware platform that includes factory tool matching, in-situ monitoring, standardized process parameters, and centralized data systems, we enable consistent and repeatable outcomes across machines and sites. These are essential advantages for distributed manufacturing in support of national defense.”
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“Additive manufacturing is pivotal to building a resilient and agile defense supply chain,” said Lee Barber, Raytheon Additive Manufacturing Materials Lead, RTX. “This collaboration with (DEVCOM) AvMC and M&S brings together government and industry to establish a scalable and repeatable process for Aluminum CP1 production. It enables rapid response and quality assurance for our military forces.”
Building a Foundation for Distributed Manufacturing
Beyond advancing Aluminum CP1 production, the initiative also aims to establish a new Installation and Operational Qualification (IQ/OQ) framework, replacing traditional point-qualification methods. This framework is expected to lay the groundwork for a distributed manufacturing model across the Department of Defense (DoD) and its supplier ecosystem, enhancing responsiveness, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.