Published October 31, 2026 at 10:34 AM EDT
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has acquired an AMCM M 8K eight-laser metal 3D printer to enhance hypersonic testing at its Indiana Payload Integration Facility. The machine will be installed at the site near the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Division, to support aerospace and defense applications. This acquisition aligns with Kratos’ goal of accelerating hypersonic development through advanced manufacturing techniques. The M 8K is expected to significantly improve the speed and cost-efficiency of producing test hardware for hypersonic systems.
The AMCM M 8K features a build envelope of 800 x 800 x 1,200 mm, allowing for the production of large components in a single print. It uses eight 1.2 kW nLIGHT lasers, which are U.S.-made, and can move up to four tons of powder along the Z-axis during operations. This large-scale capability is essential for creating complex parts that would otherwise require multiple smaller prints or traditional manufacturing methods. The machine’s design emphasizes precision and reliability, making it suitable for high-stakes aerospace and defense projects.
Kratos expands hypersonic testing capabilities with a large-scale metal 3D printer.
Kratos Acquires AMCM M 8K for Hypersonic Testing
The machine addresses challenges in large-format metal additive manufacturing, particularly heat and gas management. AMCM’s AirSword gas flow technology ensures uniform gas flow across the build area, reducing laser-smoke interaction and improving print quality. This innovation is critical for maintaining consistent part quality during long and complex builds. The system’s advanced thermal management also helps prevent defects caused by excessive heat buildup, which is especially important when working with materials like copper alloys.
The M 8K is designed to handle materials like copper alloys, which are difficult to print due to their high thermal conductivity. This capability aligns with the needs of aerospace and defense applications, including rocket engines and missile structures. Copper alloys are commonly used in high-temperature environments, making them ideal for propulsion systems. The M 8K’s ability to process these materials expands the range of components that can be produced using additive manufacturing.
Technical Specifications of the AMCM M 8K
Kratos plans to use the M 8K to accelerate the development of hypersonic systems, aiming for more frequent and cost-effective testing. The machine’s installation at the Indiana facility is part of a broader effort to advance hypersonic technology. By reducing the time and cost associated with producing test hardware, Kratos can conduct more experiments and refine its designs more quickly. This approach supports the company’s goal of improving the performance and reliability of hypersonic systems.
The AMCM M 8K is engineered for high-end aerospace and defense manufacturing. Its large build volume and advanced thermal management systems make it suitable for producing complex, mission-critical components. The machine’s design emphasizes precision and reliability during extended print jobs. This makes it ideal for applications where even minor defects can have significant consequences, such as in rocket engines or missile structures.
The M 8K’s eight lasers operate simultaneously with high precision, enabling the creation of intricate structures. This capability is essential for producing parts that require tight tolerances and high structural integrity. The system’s advanced optical systems and dynamic scan fields allow for precise control over the printing process, ensuring that each layer is accurately formed. This level of precision is crucial for aerospace and defense applications where performance and safety are paramount.
Thermal and Gas Management Innovations
The machine’s cooling architecture is designed to handle demanding materials like copper alloys, which require careful thermal control to avoid defects. This feature ensures consistent part quality even during long and complex builds. The cooling system works in conjunction with the gas flow technology to maintain optimal conditions throughout the printing process. This combination of features makes the M 8K well-suited for producing high-quality components under challenging conditions.
The AMCM M 8K is the first system of its kind to be acquired by the American Center for Manufacturing and Innovation (ACMI). This marks a milestone in large-format metal additive manufacturing, as the system provides new capabilities for producing large-volume components. ACMI’s acquisition of the M 8K highlights the growing importance of additive manufacturing in aerospace and defense. The system’s capabilities are expected to benefit a wide range of manufacturers and researchers.
The M 8K’s development involved collaboration with ArianeGroup and is tailored for aerospace and defense applications. Its features, including Dynamic Scan Fields and advanced beam shaping, contribute to improved productivity and process reliability. These innovations allow for more efficient and consistent printing, reducing the need for post-processing and rework. The system’s design reflects the evolving needs of the aerospace and defense industries, where speed and precision are critical.
Strategic Location and Industry Implications
Kratos’ decision to invest in the M 8K reflects the growing importance of additive manufacturing in aerospace and defense. The machine’s capabilities align with the company’s goal of rapid, cost-effective hypersonic testing and development. By leveraging the M 8K’s advanced features, Kratos can produce high-quality components more quickly and efficiently than traditional methods. This investment underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement.
The M 8K’s installation at Kratos’ facility is expected to influence the future of large-scale metal 3D printing. Its integration into hypersonic testing operations highlights the evolving role of additive manufacturing in advanced aerospace applications. As more companies adopt similar technologies, the industry is likely to see significant improvements in efficiency, cost, and performance. The M 8K represents a key step in this transformation.
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