ASTRO bags $40M deal to bring 3D printed ship part industry to Guam

Guam is set to revolutionize its ship and submarine repair capabilities with a new $40 million contract awarded to the Applied Science & Technology Research Organization (ASTRO) of America. Governor Lou Leon Guerrero announced this significant development during a meeting with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at Andersen Air Force Base. The initiative aims to establish an industrial-scale 3D printing industry on the island, enhancing the efficiency of naval repairs and creating job opportunities for local residents.

Transforming Naval Repairs with 3D Printing

The introduction of 3D printing technology, also known as additive manufacturing, is expected to drastically reduce the downtime associated with ship repairs. Governor Leon Guerrero emphasized the importance of having parts readily available on Guam, eliminating the need for lengthy supply chains that often require shipping from Hawaii or the mainland U.S. “They don’t have downtime of two weeks having to get the supplies,” she stated, highlighting the project’s potential impact on operational efficiency.

ASTRO America, recognized for its focus on industrial-scale 3D printing, has plans to set up a manufacturing facility on the island. The governor noted that this project is crucial for Guam’s economic development, promising more jobs and training opportunities for the local workforce. She mentioned the need for additional funding to establish a training center at the University of Guam, which will support the workforce needed for this new industry.

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While the governor has confirmed the signing of the contract, she has not received a specific timeline for the project’s rollout. However, she expressed optimism about the future, stating, “It’s going to move forward, and we’re going to have 3D printing and additive manufacturing as one of our industries for economic improvement.” ASTRO has already secured a warehouse on Guam and plans to release further details about the project soon.

Future Developments and Educational Partnerships

ASTRO’s initiative, referred to as the GAMMA project, includes plans for an advanced manufacturing education and technology center on Guam. This center will be developed through a public-private partnership involving the government of Guam and the Navy. According to ASTRO, the center is expected to be operational within three years and will feature a satellite campus of a leading U.S. engineering university.

The project will unfold in phases, with the first phase focusing on establishing initial capabilities while the permanent training facility is constructed. This phase will involve procuring necessary equipment and integrating technology within shipping container modules. As the project progresses, the second phase will see the installation of advanced 3D production and inspection equipment, enabling prototyping and testing of naval ship production parts.

In addition to the Guam project, ASTRO is involved in various other defense-related initiatives, including the development of 3D printing technologies for hypersonic weapons and full-scale military vehicle production. The organization is also collaborating with major defense contractors to support small businesses in entering the 3D printing sector, thereby strengthening U.S. supply chains.

As discussions about Guam’s role in U.S. naval operations continue, local leaders are advocating for the island’s potential as a logistical hub for ship maintenance and repair. With the recent contract and the establishment of a 3D printing industry, Guam is poised to play a vital role in enhancing the operational readiness of the U.S. Navy in the Pacific region.