AML3D (ASX: AL3) has successfully installed its first containerised portable ARCEMY system at the US Navy Additive Manufacturing Centre of Excellence (AM CoE) in Danville, Virginia.
This significant operational milestone saw the completion of factory acceptance testing and subsequent installation.
The successful deployment triggered the final 50% payment of an ~AU$1.2 million order from Austal USA.
The new portable unit joins two existing large-scale ARCEMY X systems, bringing the total ARCEMY systems at the facility to three.
Critically, the portable ARCEMY system, delivered in a 20-foot shipping container, boasts rapid redeployment capabilities, taking just 1-2 days compared to 2-3 weeks for fixed systems.
Defence Sector Strategy Bolstered
This deployment further strengthens AML3D's defence sector strategy, with management anticipating the portable system will support forward deployment by various US military branches.
A US Navy Letter of Intent highlights a potential opportunity for up to 100 additive manufacturing systems and 3400 additively manufactured parts by 2030.
This follows recent contract wins and operational milestones, including the FasTech ARCEMY X installation and a ~AU$2.61 million order for US Navy submarine components.
The addition of the portable ARCEMY unit significantly expands the US Navy AM CoE's additive manufacturing capabilities.
The centre, operated by Austal USA, now has three AML3D ARCEMY systems at its disposal.
This portable system's flexibility in deployment is a key differentiator, offering enhanced operational agility compared to traditional fixed systems, and is expected to accelerate technological development and component manufacturing at the Danville facility.
Recent Defence Contract Wins
AML3D has demonstrated consistent momentum in the US defence market. The company recently secured a ~AU$9.9 million order from Newport News Shipbuilding (HII), the largest US military shipbuilder, for four ARCEMY X 6700 systems.
This order will bring Newport News Shipbuilding's total ARCEMY X units to six, with installation targeted for Q3 FY2027.
This expansion is supported by a planned USD$12 million investment to grow AML3D's US production capabilities.
Furthermore, AML3D received a ~AU$2.61 million order from BlueForge Alliance for five replacement components for US Navy submarines, utilising ARCEMY 3D metal printing.
This contract, payable up front and on milestone completion, is expected to run for approximately 10 months commencing in Q4 of the current financial year.
These orders underscore AML3D's growing traction within the US defence and maritime sectors.
