U.S. Navy scales 3D printing for submarine production

The U.S. Navy has released new technical requirements aimed at rapidly scaling metallic additive manufacturing (3D printing) across its submarine enterprise. The initiative, which includes the newly approved Project Peculiar Document (PPD) 802-8436658, establishes a repeatable technical pathway to substitute traditional cast and wrought components with 3D-printed metallic materials.

By streamlining the approval process, the Navy intends to eliminate redundant engineering assessments, manual drawing modifications, and repetitive first-article testing that have historically slowed the adoption of additive manufacturing. Vice Adm. Robert Gaucher, Director of Submarine Programs, stated that this move is designed to address supply chain constraints and part obsolescence, allowing engineers, shipbuilders, and suppliers to deploy qualified solutions more quickly.

The framework is intended to support submarine construction, maintenance, overhaul, and repair. Gaucher emphasized that scaling these advanced manufacturing capabilities will not compromise safety or quality standards, particularly for high-consequence applications such as SUBSAFE systems.