Additive manufacturing

Velo3D’s Sapphire 3D Printers Secure Pentagon Tech Safety Compliance

The Department of Defense has granted Velo3D’s Sapphire 3D printers Green-Level Security Technical Implementation Guide compliance after exceeding expectations for network, data and software security and vulnerability management.

The STIG compliance allows Sapphire printers to connect to the Pentagon’s Secret Internet Protocol Router Network and Non-classified Internet Protocol Network. Without the STIG compliance, Sapphire users would need to disconnect from DOD’s network, which would have prevented users from taking full advantage of the printers’ capabilities.

When connected to the department’s networks, users can monitor printing progress, analyze data generated from the printing process, and transfer print files to and from computers.

The STIG compliance also allows users to 3D-print sensitive components and other items controlled by the International Traffic in Arms Regulation without the risk of intellectual property theft, Velo3D said.

The U.S. military has been exploring 3D printing capabilities over recent months.

In October, Rear Adm. Jonathan Rucker, the U.S. Navy’s program executive officer for attack submarines, said additive manufacturing is the only way to satisfy demand for submarine components sustainably. He told House lawmakers that part of the White House’s proposed $3.4 billion supplemental funding could be used to support 3D printing development.

In July, the Consortium for Additive Manufacturing Research and Education performed an in-flight 3D printing demonstration.