Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is expected to play a vital role in reducing construction delays and component lead times across the submarine enterprise. “Material availability continues to drive construction delays across the submarine enterprise,” said Ken Jeanos, vice president of Supply Chain, Materials and Logistics for General Dynamics Electric Boat. “3D-printed parts have the potential to accelerate construction and delivery of submarines to the U.S. Navy by cutting lead times for critical components.”
Through MIB Program funding, Electric Boat will procure critical submarine components from Lincoln Electric’s new large-scale metal additive manufacturing operation in Cleveland. The facility features four SculptPrint™ machines and marks Lincoln Electric’s largest government-backed AM investment to date.
“This Maritime Industrial Base investment is a pivotal step to further unlock AM capabilities, enabling the defense industry to address complex supply chain challenges with innovative, efficient solutions,” added Jeanos. “This partnership expands the use of AM and other innovative technologies that Electric Boat’s engineering and procurement teams have been working on for several years.”
Mr. Matt Sermon, Executive Director of the Maritime Industrial Base Program, highlighted the strategic importance of the initiative. “The MIB Program is charged with strengthening and expanding the shipbuilding and repair capacity our nation needs for deterrence and warfighting. By investing in additive manufacturing at scale, we are helping ensure our industrial base has the tools, technologies, and resilience required to meet the Navy’s mission.”
Steven B. Hedlund, chairman and chief executive officer of Lincoln Electric, emphasised the company’s continued role in defence innovation. “This investment strengthens our partnership with Electric Boat and solidifies Lincoln Electric’s commitment to delivering transformative solutions for the defense industrial base.”
Established in September 2024, the MIB Program supports the revitalisation of America’s shipbuilding and repair capabilities to meet national defence needs. Lincoln Electric, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, is a global leader in arc welding technology, automation systems, and advanced manufacturing solutions, serving customers in over 160 countries.
