The U.S. Navy is advancing its integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and 3D printing technologies to enhance logistical support and operational capabilities. These initiatives were recently tested during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, the world’s largest international maritime exercise, held in the waters around Hawaii.
As part of RIMPAC, the Navy assessed the use of drones to deliver critical supplies to the destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur. This initiative aims to address the challenges posed by manning shortages and the high costs associated with manned aircraft deliveries. From June 19 to June 24, the Curtis Wilbur conducted flight tests using the Skyways V2.6 and PteroDynamics X-P4 unmanned aerial systems. The tests, part of the Just In Time Delivery logistics effort with the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, involved launching and recovering six drones.
Cmdr. Yilei Liu, commanding officer of the Curtis Wilbur, emphasized the importance of these experiments, stating, “The Navy continues to drive rapid experimentation and implementation of new technologies. It is vital to evaluate these technologies in different environmental conditions to define and scope the operating envelopes of these highly capable platforms.”
In a parallel effort, the Navy is exploring the use of 3D printing to shorten the supply chain for crucial parts. During RIMPAC, media were invited to Marine Corps Base Hawaii to see 3D printers in action, producing parts made of metal and polymer. Patrick Tucker, a contractor working with the Naval Postgraduate School, explained that the experiment follows a “cradle-to-grave” approach, identifying readiness problems, designing parts, and using both polymer and metal printers to produce final components.
The Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific oversees this 3D printing initiative. Tucker noted, “I don’t really think there’s been something like this done yet with the [Department of Defense].” This project aims to drastically reduce the time needed to produce and deliver parts, enhancing the operational readiness of Navy vessels.
The exercise shows the importance of integrating autonomous platforms into existing systems to define the future of combat operations. Liu highlighted, “Once tested, autonomous systems can provide independent defensive and offensive capabilities in a contested environment. These systems can perform potentially dangerous, high-risk evolutions with maximum efficiency and minimal risk to personnel.”
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