Metal additive manufacturing is becoming increasingly important in industries where supply-chain resilience, component availability and production flexibility are critical. Australian company AML3D has received an order worth approximately $2.2 million from Northrop Grumman Marine Systems for a large-scale ARCEMY X wire additive manufacturing system.

The order followed a competitive tender process and includes a two-year maintenance and services package.

Supporting Naval and Submarine Manufacturing

The ARCEMY X system is intended for installation at Northrop Grumman’s manufacturing facility in Sunnyvale, California. AML3D expects final installation in the fourth quarter of its 2027 financial year.

The order is significant because it represents AML3D’s first system sale to Northrop Grumman and extends the company’s presence in the US naval manufacturing supply chain.

AML3D’s Wire Additive Manufacturing process uses wire feedstock to produce large metal components through controlled deposition. Compared with some powder-based processes, wire-based systems can be attractive for large components where deposition rate and material utilization are important considerations.

Industrial Implications

Naval shipbuilding and submarine programs require a broad range of metal components, often with demanding material and production requirements. Additive manufacturing can help address selected supply-chain bottlenecks and support the production of complex or low-volume parts.

However, qualification remains essential. Components intended for critical naval applications must meet strict material, dimensional, mechanical and traceability requirements.

The order illustrates how metal additive manufacturing is moving deeper into established defense supply chains. It also shows that industrial adoption is increasingly driven by specific production needs rather than technology demonstrations alone.