The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), in collaboration with BAE Systems Hägglunds and Saab, has developed a microfactory for 3D printing spare parts in the field. The system, showcased during the Winter Demo Days 2026, is designed to enable the production of approved components directly at the front line when logistics chains are disrupted.
The microfactory, officially referred to as an advanced manufacturing module, is a trial and experimental project consisting of four containers connected to form a workshop. According to FMV's press release, the module includes the entire manufacturing chain. This encompasses receiving digital "recipes" for spare parts, creating CAD drawings, 3D printing, and necessary post-processing.
The heart of the factory is a cell with a six-axis metal printer capable of printing objects with a diameter of up to one metre and a weight of 300 kilograms. In addition, there are two 3D printers for plastic and a workbench with tools and an oven.
– We will also acquire a resin printer, which can print objects from liquid plastic, says Diana Flach, systems engineer at FMV.
The solution is described in the press release as a method to increase availability for Swedish units when regular supply lines are not operational.
– This is the contingency plan if, for any reason, it is not possible to obtain original parts from the factory. This could involve parts of Sweden being cut off so that deliveries cannot reach, the unit needing spare parts quickly, or requiring obsolete parts, says Daniel Öman, product manager at FMV.
The project was initiated following an order from the Swedish Armed Forces (Försvarsmakten) in March 2025. The goal is for the system to be ready for handover before the spring workshop "EDA AM Village 2026" in Spain. Before that, a system safety declaration will be conducted, among other things.
– What is unique about this is that we consider the entire manufacturing chain. This is a completely new capability for the Swedish defence and a rapidly growing area among other forces around the world, says Lisa Säflund, project manager at FMV.