Indian Armed Forces turn to 3D Printing for military construction

What is the News?

Indian Army’s Military Engineering Services(MES) has constructed two houses using 3D Rapid Construction Technology. The houses have been constructed in South-Western Air Command in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

How are houses constructed using 3D Printing?

3D printing is a process where three-dimensional objects are created from a digital representation by putting layer after layer of printing material. 

Typically, the material used in 3D printing is made of plastic or metal. A special type of concrete is used for housing projects.

Advantages of 3D Printed houses

– Potentially reduces overall construction cost significantly,

– Less construction time,

– Brings down the related carbon footprint,

– Increases productivity of labour involved,

– Offers raw material flexibility/utilization of eco-friendly materials.

Why has the Indian Army turned to 3D Printing for military construction?

The Indian Army has turned to 3D Printing to make bunkers and parking facilities for military vehicles in border areas, where traditional construction is challenging due to harsh weather conditions and a short supply of labour due to the threat from hostile neighbours.

Source: This post is based on the article “Indian Armed Forces turn to 3D Printing for military construction” published in Livemint on 16th Mar 2022.