ASIA-PACIFIC ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING IN AEROSPACE & DEFENSE MARKET FORECAST 2023-2032

The Asia-Pacific additive manufacturing in aerospace & defense market growth assessment includes the evaluation of South Korea, Vietnam, Japan, China, Australia & New Zealand, Thailand, India, Indonesia, and Rest of Asia-Pacific. China’s Made in China 2025 initiative emphasizes the development of aerospace equipment and additive manufacturing. The C919, China’s pioneering commercial airliner with 3D printed components, took flight in May 2017, highlighting additive manufacturing’s potential for weight reduction and enhanced safety.

In May 2020, the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) successfully launched a space 3D printer, executing the nation’s first in-orbit additive manufacturing tests. This groundbreaking research may enable large-scale in-space manufacturing, fostering strategic alliances and production expansion within China’s growing market.

On the other hand, Japanese businesses faced challenges adopting additive manufacturing technologies due to their traditional nature. However, Japan-based aerospace firms now actively promote these technologies, recognizing their alignment with lean manufacturing principles and minimizing material wastage. This increased adoption of additive manufacturing by aerospace industry leaders has prompted prominent local players to expand their global manufacturing footprint. Consequently, these developments are expected to positively impact the Japanese market throughout the forecast period.

The Asia-Pacific additive manufacturing in aerospace & defense market segmentation includes the analysis by material, manufacturing, and application. Market by material covers special metals and alloys.

The alloy segment in additive manufacturing encompasses materials like copper, nickel, steel, aluminum, and chrome. The increasing demand for complex alloys and diverse offerings from industry players have heightened market competitiveness. Additive manufacturing technologies, such as metal deposition and laser sintering, necessitate different materials, with alloys providing versatility in supply.

Commercial organizations and universities actively engage in research and development to enhance the stability and versatility of alloys used in additive manufacturing. These efforts improve the properties of end products and optimize manufacturing processes, spurring technological advancements.

Government bodies host competitions and challenges to further stimulate industry growth and competitiveness. For instance, in October 2020, the US Air Force (USAF) awarded Elementum 3D the gold prize for its A7050-RAM2 high-strength aluminum alloy. Following the event, USAF plans to establish long-term material acquisition contracts with the company.

Major players operating in the Asia-Pacific additive manufacturing in aerospace & defense market entail Airbus SE, Safran SA, The Boeing Company, etc.

The Boeing Company is one of the largest aerospace companies, a prominent manufacturer of commercial jetliners, defense, space, and security systems, and a leading provider of aftermarket support. The organization holds a strong position in the defense contracting and aircraft manufacturing sectors. Their extensive product range encompasses weapons, launch systems, commercial and military aircraft, satellites, electronic and defense systems, performance-based logistics & training, and advanced information & communication systems.

The company operates an additive manufacturing production center that generates over 10,000 additive tools annually. Additionally, it has invested in a cutting-edge additive engineering and manufacturing firm to produce 3D-printed metallic flight hardware for its satellites and helicopters. 

The Boeing Company’s 3D printing technology encompasses commercial and defense aircraft components, spacecraft products, and aluminum gearbox housing for helicopters, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and continuous improvement in the aerospace industry.