Indian Army Highlights Role of Additive Manufacturing at National Symposium 2026

National Additive Manufacturing Symposium 2026 Focuses on Defence Innovation

The Indian Army participated in the National Additive Manufacturing Symposium 2026 held in New Delhi . The symposium brought together representatives from government organisations, academic institutions and industrial partners to discuss the growing role of additive manufacturing in strengthening India’s industrial ecosystem and defence preparedness. The event served as a platform for collaboration on advanced technologies that support innovation, efficiency and self-reliance in strategic manufacturing.

Emphasis on Strategic Manufacturing

According to the Ministry of Defence , the symposium provided an opportunity for the Indian Army to interact with stakeholders involved in advanced manufacturing technologies.

Participants explored ways to accelerate the adoption of additive manufacturing in defence systems. Experts highlighted the importance of cooperation among research institutions, industry partners and government agencies to build a resilient manufacturing ecosystem capable of meeting future military requirements.

Indian Army Delegation and Leadership

The Army delegation was led by Rajiv Kumar Sahni , Director General of the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers .

During the inaugural session, he emphasised the concept of “Combat Force Regeneration” , which involves restoring and upgrading military equipment directly near operational areas. This approach enables rapid repairs, component replacement and equipment upgrades during missions, thereby improving operational efficiency and logistical responsiveness.

Integration with Smart Manufacturing

Discussions at the symposium also focused on the integration of additive manufacturing with smart manufacturing technologies. This includes simulation-based design, digital modelling and data-driven decision systems that help accelerate equipment development.

The Indian Army is working to deploy both polymer-based and metal-based additive manufacturing technologies while creating digital design ecosystems that enable rapid prototyping and innovation.

Role in Defence Modernisation

Additive manufacturing is increasingly transforming defence logistics and production systems. The technology allows the quick fabrication of spare parts, customised components and complex equipment designs. By reducing material waste and shortening production cycles, it improves supply chain efficiency and battlefield readiness.

Through collaboration with research institutions and industrial partners, the Indian Army aims to expand the use of this technology in defence operations and modernisation programmes.

Exam-Focused Points

• Additive Manufacturing (AM) , also called 3D printing , builds objects layer by layer using digital designs.

• The Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers handles maintenance and technical support of Army equipment.

• Additive manufacturing enables rapid prototyping and production of complex components .

• The technology reduces material wastage and manufacturing time .

• Increasingly used in defence logistics, equipment repair and modernisation programmes .