Military, Industry, Academia, and Research Institutes Collaborate
to Shape the Future of Defense AM
On December 11th 2024, the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology’s 3D Printing Manufacturing Innovation Center (KAMIC) participated in the STRONG Army 3D Printing Seminar aimed at advancing and improving the quality of additive manufacturing in national defense.
This seminar was held to foster communication and cooperation between the military, industry, academia, and research institutes, emphasizing the importance of 3D printing technology in national defense and promoting systematic development in the field. Approximately 40 participants, including representatives from the Ministry of National Defense, the Army Headquarters, related organizations, and defense companies, engaged in lively discussions on the present and future of defense 3D printing technology.
Key Highlights
- Current Status and Future Prospects of Defense 3D Printing Technology: KAMIC Center Director, Son Yong, presented the current status of 3D printing technology utilization both domestically and internationally within the defense sector. He highlighted the potential contributions of 3D printing technology to the field of defense MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul).
- Application Cases of 3D Printing Technology in the Defense Industry: Heo Jae-hoon, team leader at Hanwha Systems, presented cases of applying additive manufacturing technology to defense electronics equipment. He suggested ways to enhance the value of parts and expand the application of additive manufacturing.
- Quality Assurance Measures for Defense 3D Printing: Ahn Man-ki, a senior researcher at the Defense Agency for Technology and Quality, presented a plan to establish a quality certification process for defense 3D printing parts, emphasizing the importance of quality management.
- Responding to Changes in the Future Defense Environment: Jang Jin-su, head of the Future Power Workplace at the Integrated Maintenance Depot, presented the future direction of additive manufacturing technology in preparation for changes in the defense environment. He emphasized the need for cooperation between the military and private sectors and the establishment of a quality certification system.
Lively Discussion and Future Strategies
Following the presentations, a lively discussion ensued among the participants. Various opinions were shared on expanding the use of 3D printing technology in national defense and ensuring quality. The seminar served as a catalyst for further advancements in 3D printing technology within the defense sector.
KAMIC plays a crucial role in the development of 3D printing technology for national defense. Through active research and development and industry-academia-research cooperation, KAMIC will continue to lead innovation in defense 3D printing technology and contribute to strengthening national defense capabilities.
