3D printing wizards AML3D land £450k UK defence deal with BAE

Adelaide’s metal 3D printing pioneers AML3D are taking their Aussie-made tech expertise to British shores, securing an $830,000 contract with defence giant BAE Systems.

In an announcement released to the ASX on Tuesday, AML3D revealed it will source 8.5 tonnes of Nickel Aluminium Bronze wire feedstock for BAE as part of a material feasibility program—enough metal to 3D print components that could equip next-generation naval vessels.

The contract marks AML3D’s first significant foray into the UK defence market, building on momentum the company has generated through its work with the US Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base.

“AML3D has been developing its relationship with BAE Systems for over a year. It is very exciting to see that work translate into an initial contract,” said CEO Sean Ebert, who teased that more deals are in the pipeline.

“This contract is planned to be just the first and I look forward to giving updates on additional contracts as the program progresses.”

The Adelaide-based manufacturer is strategically expanding its defence sector presence across three key markets—having opened a US manufacturing facility in December before turning attention to opportunities in the UK and Australian defence sectors.

AML3D’s patented Wire Additive Manufacturing process allows it to 3D print large-scale metal parts for industries including aerospace, maritime and defence from its Technology Centre in Adelaide. The company also manufactures ARCEMY, an industrial metal 3D printing system that incorporates Industry 4.0 capabilities.

While Ebert acknowledged that “winning Defence contracts can take time,” he expressed confidence in announcing additional orders from UK and Australian defence sectors soon to complement what he described as “huge momentum” in the US.

Image: AML3D/Facebook