Advanced Manufacturing Technologies

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) is interested in advanced technology demonstrations for affordability and advanced industrial practices to demonstrate the combination of improved part manufacturing and improved business cases. DLA is seeking to drastically lower unit cost of discrete parts through manufacturing innovations with commercial applicability. This innovation will greatly improve existing defense systems while impacting the next generation systems. Combat vehicles are being subjected to new, more difficult end-user demands by the realities of modern warfare. Increasing survivability, lethality and mobility requirements are pushing the limits of current vehicle component design and materials. Currently, suspension and driveline components for military vehicles, such as Road Arms and Drive Shafts, are forged using 4000s chrome molybdenum steel alloys. Exotic alloys, such as titanium, and expensive manufacturing processes, such as hot forging, offer higher strength and lightweighting, but the cost can be prohibitive. The Department of the Armys 2010 briefing Ground Combat Vehicle Analysis of Alternatives rates Total Life Cycle Cost of military vehicles as the most important criteria for cost/benefit analysis of new technologies (25% of total weight of analysis). New structural materials that offer aerospace performance at lower costs are required to meet the Armys Total Life Cycle Cost goals.