On January 6, 2025, according to the resource library, in order to solve the long-term problem of shortage of spare parts in MQ-9 drone maintenance training, the MQ-9 AFETS (Aviation Equipment) team leader Training and Support), Kennon Nichols, and 432nd Maintenance Group (MXG) Commander Col. Joseph Deporter worked together to purchase two for the baseTuozhu 3D printerand built special facilities.
Kennon Nichols said, “To solve problems, the boundaries of traditional thinking must be broken. Our team and Colonel Deporter are in the spirit of innovation to find new ways to overcome obstacles. By introducing 3D printing technology, the training was overcome. the resulting logistical constraints and financial pressure are alleviated.
In this plan, Remington Young, an expert in airframe propulsion and power generation equipment of the MQ-9 AFETS team, forms the backbone of the technology implementation. Speaking about his experience, Young recalled: “My first 3D printer was given to me by my wife for Christmas 2016. Today, we use 3D printing technology to produce military training equipment, impart skills practical for pilots and even save lives. which previously cost $10,000 can now be printed for $15. This is the trend of the future.
In addition, the daily operations of the laboratory are ensured by Eric Pavelka, specialist in advanced avionics equipment. He coordinates printing jobs, optimizes equipment layout and ensures adequate inventory. He said: “Despite limited funds, the team agreed that introducing 3D printers was worth it. We carefully selected and purchased the most suitable equipment, which greatly improved the training efficiency.
Using 3D printing technology, maintenance training for the MQ-9 Reaper drone has significantly improved its efficiency. This technology allows formerly expensive and difficult-to-obtain parts to be quickly printed at a lower cost and in less time, significantly reducing training preparation time. This is important for military missions that require rapid response.
Additionally, 3D printing also opens up more possibilities for military applications. For example, it can quickly print replacement parts and diagnose and repair damage to drones at the mission site, reducing logistical stress and minimizing downtime. This effective solution further enhances combat readiness capabilities.
Col. Joseph Deporter, commander of the 432nd Maintenance Group, praised the 3D printing technology: “I cannot describe in words the increased capabilities that the 432 MXG AFETS team has brought to the base and to more than 800 “Hunter” maintenance professionals. “
He also pointed out that this technology not only changes current maintenance methods, but also lays the foundation for the development of future military technology. Parts built by 3D printing are not only cost-effective, but also enable rapid iteration, providing inspiration in many fields such as aerospace, national defense and logistics.
In fact, our country is also trying to use 3D printing and drones to reshape future battlefield supply lines. Recently, it was reported that an air force brigade of the Northern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army had extensively tested remote maintenance technology with 3D printing and drone transportation as the core for the first time during an equipment maintenance exercise. In this exercise, a typical battlefield scenario was simulated: the missile launcher was unable to operate normally due to damage to key components.
In the future, 3D printing technology will continue to promote military innovation and become an important pillar in improving modern military equipment and combat capabilities.
