California-based organization FLEETWERX and the US Naval Postgraduate School are evaluating a distributed manufacturing and logistics network at Camp Roberts, California.
FLEETWERX and the US Naval Postgraduate School are evaluating a distributed manufacturing and logistics network at Camp Roberts, California.
Called “FLEET-X,” the trial aims to assist warfighters in identifying, assembling, and supplying critical replacement parts live using 3D printing, artificial intelligence (AI), and unmanned systems.
Full process demonstrations cover requests to field deliveries, with the workflow consisting of digital file preparations, software-backed production assignment, component fabrication, and drone-based order transfer.
Participating companies include Re:3D, Fieldmade, ADDiTEC, CEAD, and Snowbird Technologies, which provide metal, polymer, and composite manufacturing systems.
At the same time, Splash Industries and HavocAI are supporting autonomous delivery operations, while 3YourMind and Avathon are supplying AI-enabled data and production management tools.
“This is about production flexibility, speed and effective system management,” said Ethan Brown, program manager of FLEETWERX. “When parts fail, they can take larger systems out of service.”
“FLEETX is designed to show how industry partners, software tools and unmanned systems can help reduce part production lead times and move useful capability closer to the point of need.”
For Wider Drills, Military Ops
FLEETWERX said the assessments also examine what processes must be in place before the network can support broader military exercises.
It is also planned to be applied in real-world deployments where supply lines may be disrupted or come under threat, particularly during Indo-Pacific contingencies and missions similar to Operation Epic Fury in the Middle East.
“Making a part is only part of the challenge,” said Chris Curran, program manager of advanced manufacturing research and education at the US Naval Postgraduate School.
“FLEET-X gives us a practical way to… produce quality parts that solve warfighter requirements rapidly until the traditional supply system can be utilized.”
