What's Happening?
The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) has played a key role in operationalizing advanced manufacturing techniques during the Trident Warrior 25 exercise in Southern California. The exercise demonstrated the potential of Distributed Advanced Manufacturing to address material deficiencies in the Navy and Department of Defense. NPS students and researchers, in collaboration with the Marine Innovation Unit and FleetWerx, produced parts and tested designs, showcasing the flexibility and speed of advanced manufacturing.
Why It's Important?
Advanced manufacturing offers significant benefits for military readiness and operational capacity, allowing for rapid production of parts at the point of need. This capability enhances the Navy's ability to maintain and repair assets efficiently, reducing reliance on traditional supply chains. The exercise highlights the importance of innovation in addressing supply chain challenges and optimizing military operations. By empowering service members with advanced manufacturing tools, the Navy can enhance its adaptability and resilience in contested environments.
What's Next?
Future exercises will continue to refine advanced manufacturing concepts, supporting research and development efforts that deliver new capabilities to the Navy and Joint Force. As the technology evolves, further integration into military operations is expected, potentially transforming logistics and maintenance practices. The collaboration between NPS and industry partners will drive continued innovation, ensuring the Navy remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
