Hydrogen-resistant gas turbine nozzles: two patents exploit 3D printing for monolithic components without joints and hybrid bimetallic ones, with controlled surface finishes. More durable solutions for aviation and energy, with industrial adoption in 2-5 years.

Stratasys acquires Markforged for $42.5 million from Nano Dimension, strengthening industrial 3D printing for composites and software solutions. Metal Binder Jetting technology is excluded and retained by Nano Dimension. Closing is expected in the second half of 2026.

Additive manufacturing of Ti-6Al-4V reduces costs by up to 30% by optimizing design and minimizing supports and waste. It requires proven parameters and atmospheric control, but offers superior performance to steel for critical applications with high strength-to-weight ratio.

Additive manufacturing becomes strategic for defense: having surpassed the experimental phase, 3D printing produces critical components reducing times by 80%. Million-dollar programs, new tungsten alloys, and growth beyond 20% in 2026.

Cold Spray deposits metals at supersonic speeds without melting, preserving the material's properties. Ideal for repairs and complex components in aerospace, energy, and industry.

Advanced configurators integrate geometric analysis, DFM, and AI to transform CAD models into reliable production decisions. They prevent errors in real-time and guide even non-experts toward solid technical and commercial choices through 3D visualization.

Logistical resilience is more critical than the availability of raw materials for supply chain security. The distance between production and consumption is the greatest risk. Strategic reserves of materials such as tungsten and production localization reduce the risk of downtime and ensure continuity for supply chains.

Containerized production combines additive and subtractive technologies in ruggedized containers for remote and defensive contexts. Cases like Farsoon-Addimax and Snowbird-Meltio demonstrate flexibility, autonomy, and reduced dependence on the supply chain, with local support and standard materials.

Data centers and chip factories are driving industrial-scale infrastructure investments. 3D printing, custom materials, and integrated logistics reduce times and costs. However, scaling requires mature digital ecosystems and resilient supply chains.

The Metal AM market in 2026 exceeds 6 billion with a decisive turning point: for the first time, data include defense and maritime, revealing hidden dynamics. Solid growth, a data-driven approach based on real data, and consolidation towards specialized applications will guide winning strategies.

HyCAT, a Pentagon program, accelerates hypersonic aerodynamic testing with dedicated vehicles and commercial launchers, reducing time and costs.

3D printing is revolutionizing the production of RF components, enabling lighter antennas and integrated EMI shielding in electronic packages. Additive technologies improve efficiency, customization, and reduce weight, while posing challenges regarding materials and repeatability.