The MoD is betting on advanced manufacturing to resolve obsolescence problems.

Following a successful proof of concept derived through the Ministry of Defence’s (MoD’s) Project Tampa initiative, the UK has released its Defence Advanced Manufacturing Strategy, published by the Defence Support Organisation on 28 March. 

The strategy aims to attract investment and grow the advanced manufacturing (AM) sector, helping to build more resilient supply chains, deliver economic growth and fight platform obsolescence. 

In pursuit of “a marked improvement in platform and equipment availability”, the MoD will promote industry-wide adoption of AM technologies through a four-pillar strategy. 

The pillars include: design sourcing for individual part schematics, a digital thread for providing a library of printable parts, certified production capabilities, and small-scale mobile part production facilities known as ‘spokes’.  

On implementation, the MoD will pursue a three-pronged approach. First, incentivising industry to adopt and invest in AM technology. Secondly, removing – financial and commercial – constraints, which slow down supply chains. Lastly, to develop AM supply networks with stakeholders from frontline users to industry, international partners, and allies. 

The MoD had not responded to DSEI at the time of publication regarding how they will support and incentivise industry to utilise AM capabilities. 

Laying the groundwork for this strategy was Project Tampa – also known as the “AM as a Service Challenge”. It trialled rapid repair and part replacement to alleviate in-service pressures and was “proven to be feasible” according to the Chief of Defence Logistics and Support, Vice Admiral Andy Kyte in the press release.  

“This strategy recognises that it is the pace at which industry can apply AM to our platforms that dictates the pace of benefit realisation”, although “the rate of adoption will be slow unless we work together to remove constraints”, Kyte continued. 

Obsolescence, which can occur when the supply of components is threatened – especially with sophisticated platforms – will be combatted using “expeditious battle damage repair techniques” provided by AM, according to the strategy.