The defence industry is currently at a turning point – increasing technological demands, the need to respond rapidly to emerging threats, and growing pressure to improve the efficiency of design and production processes are all driving the sector to embrace innovative solutions. Additive technologies, such as industrial 3D printing, along with advanced composite materials, are no longer just supporting traditional methods – they are increasingly forming the foundation of modern strategies for the development of military products.
Dr Paweł Roczniak, PhD (Eng.), Director of the 3D Printing Department (Fibometry) at New Era Materials, presented the perspective on the use of additive technologies and composites in the defence sector during the Scientific and Technical Conference ARMTECH 2025, held in Warsaw on 23–25 June 2025. In his presentation titled “Industrial 3D printing in development and mass production for the Defence Industry”, the expert showcased the potential of additive technologies in shortening product development cycles, increasing component functionality, and enabling greater manufacturing flexibility – from prototyping to series production.
Dr Roczniak presentation attracted significant interest from conference participants representing both military and academic-industrial communities. The topics discussed included the implementation of next-generation composites, the capabilities of 3D printing using SLS, MJF, and DMLS technologies, as well as the importance of cooperation between research institutes, universities, and industry.
The presentation addressed several key topics, including:
• The use of 3D printing technology for rapid prototyping of defence solutions
• Scaling 3D production from laboratory trials to serial batches – challenges and best practices
• Cross-sector collaboration – military institutes, universities, and industry in the process of implementing advanced solutions
Dr Roczniak highlighted how New Era Materials supports the development of innovative products through its proprietary NEMpreg materials and comprehensive manufacturing processes, which enable a fast and efficient transition from concept to production. Additionally, specific case studies were presented in which 3D printing has become a driving force behind military innovation.
The presentation also highlighted the applications of professional 3D printing technologies such as SLS (Selective Laser Sintering), MJF (Multi Jet Fusion), and DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) – all of which are used both in rapid prototyping and in the production of high-strength, high-precision components. Fibometry offers these technologies as part of a comprehensive service – from design support and professional 3D printing to advanced post-processing, including surface finishing and final assembly. This enables the delivery of ready-to-use, functional components for the most demanding industries, including the defence sector.
As a company that combines advanced science with real-world implementation, we hope that the panel contributed to the exchange of knowledge and strengthened New Era Materials position as a trusted partner for the defence sector.
We encourage companies, research institutes, and universities to collaborate with us – together, we can shape the future of defence technologies.