The UK Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Babcock to develop a concept that will allow the Ukrainian military to use 3D printing to manufacture spare parts directly in the field conditions.

This is stated in the company’s press release.

Babcock will work on the project together with the British company QinetiQ.

Together, they will create digital drawings and computer-aided design files that can be used to print the necessary parts.

The technology involves reengineering – the restoration of old components by analyzing their functionality and design, which will allow them to be reproduced in digital form at the request of the customer.

“We aim to give Ukraine the capability to recreate the military parts that they need, where and when it really matters. This innovation is based on our engineering expertise and technology capability, giving us further opportunities to optimize 3D printing,” said Babcock’s Land Sector CEO.

3D printing technologies in the military

In November 2024, Babcock delivered the first batch of 3D printed spare parts to the British Army.

These parts were created as part of the TAMPA Program and have already been delivered to the troops to repair a wide range of military equipment.

First of all, it is an active production of spare parts for the L118 howitzers, which have been in service with the British Army for a long time and require regular maintenance.

In terms of the program, it is planned to also produce the parts for Challenger 2 main battle tanks and other armored vehicles.

The initiative aims to provide the UK Armed Forces with the ability to quickly obtain the necessary components, reduce production costs, and ensure flexible deployment of production both domestically and during overseas operations.

Babcock and Ukraine

In December 2023, it was reported that the British company Babcock had received a three-year contract to support and maintain two minehunters Cherkasy and Chernihiv of the Ukrainian Navy.

The company has also established Babcock Ukraine LLC and opened an office in Ukraine, where a dedicated team will focus on supporting Ukrainian customers and industry partners.

In addition, Babcock is engaged in the repair of British-made ground vehicles.