3D Systems (NYSE: DDD) Strengthens Aerospace & Defense Business with Major Investments
ROCK HILL, S.C., Jan. 5, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 3D Systems (NYSE: DDD) has announced significant advancements in its Aerospace & Defense (A&D) sector, showcasing robust earnings forecasts, a substantial U.S. facility expansion, and critical technological developments. These strategic initiatives are set to capitalize on the increasing demand for secure, domestically sourced manufacturing, particularly in national security and space operations, especially in light of the new restrictions outlined in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. The company is poised to benefit from these changes as they restrict foreign-sourced 3D printing systems for Department of Defense (DoD) projects.
Financial Growth and Projections for DDD
The A&D division of 3D Systems is projected to show remarkable growth, with forecasts indicating over a 15% increase in revenue for 2025, ramping up to more than 20% in 2026. Revenue generated from production printing systems and custom metal parts is expected to surpass $35 million in 2026, driven by the growing adoption of additive manufacturing in high-reliability defense and space applications.
Strategic Capacity Expansion at Littleton Facility
In a bold move to expand its capabilities, 3D Systems is adding an additional 80,000 square feet to its Littleton, Colorado facility, enhancing its Application Center of Excellence. This phased expansion will bolster capacity for application development, process qualification, validation, and production-scale manufacturing, thus accelerating innovation and improving the resilience of domestic supply chains.
Certification and Scaling of Production
The Littleton facility was recently selected for certification under the America Makes JAQS-SQ framework. This initiative, in collaboration with the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR), aims to enhance the defense industrial base capabilities for qualified additive manufacturing. The facility's longstanding quality infrastructure—previously used in the medical technology sector—will facilitate the rapid qualification and deployment of additively manufactured defense components.
Development of Next-Generation Metal Printing Technologies
3D Systems is on schedule with its multi-phase, $18.5 million project funded by the U.S. Air Force, aimed at developing next-generation laser powder-bed fusion technologies. These advancements will enable efficient production of large-format metal components critical to various defense systems, with key milestones expected to be met through 2027.
A Unique Domestic Manufacturing Ecosystem
Upon completion in 2027, 3D Systems will uniquely offer a complete, end-to-end metal additive manufacturing ecosystem located entirely in the U.S. This will include system design in San Diego, printer manufacturing in Rock Hill, and production with advanced application development in Littleton, Colorado. Such a setup positions 3D Systems optimally to fulfill the growing need for secure domestic supply chains.
Global Operations Support and Complementary Capabilities
Alongside its extensive U.S. infrastructure, 3D Systems maintains a robust international presence. Operations in Europe, particularly in Leuven, Belgium, and Riom, France, provide essential aerospace design and application expertise, supporting various international A&D customers. Moreover, the joint venture in Saudi Arabia is pioneering localized A&D solutions in collaboration with Lockheed Martin for mission-critical components.
Leadership Insights and Strategic Priorities
Dr. Jeffrey Graves, President and CEO of 3D Systems, commented, “Aerospace and defense customers worldwide increasingly require a reliable partner that delivers qualified, scalable solutions with speed, security, and supply chain resilience.” He emphasized that the current U.S. policy developments, including NDAA provisions, are providing additional momentum that aligns with the company’s strategic domestic investments.
Dr. Mike Shepard, Vice President of the A&D business at 3D Systems, remarked, “We are prioritizing A&D applications where additive manufacturing delivers maximum mission impact—from shipbuilding and advanced defense systems to aviation and space.”
Conclusion
3D Systems' strategic investments in the A&D sector underscore its commitment to sustaining growth and enhancing its competitive edge in additive manufacturing. As the company positions itself at the forefront of high-stakes manufacturing, it is well-equipped to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving demands of the defense industry.