Defense Appropriations Bill Includes $31.5M for 3D Printing Development
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The new federal defense appropriations budget includes more than $100 million in research and development programs that could benefit companies and universities in the region.
On Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, D-13 Ohio and vice chairman of the House’s defense appropriations subcommittee, announced the funding, which includes $25.5 million in R&D funding for large-scale additive manufacturing development, training and supply chain development and $6 million to assist tool and die makers in transitioning to 3D-printed molds.
The bill also includes a 2.7% pay raise for troops and “significant funds” to improve military housing.
“This bill not only ensures our service members have the resources they need to protect us abroad, it also takes a big step forward as we build the economy of the future right here in the United States. This critical funding will help us maintain our competitive edge in research and development and grow local jobs,”Ryan said in a statement. “Additionally, this bill goes a long way to countering both Russia and China, which have proven time after time that they are bad actors on the global stage. I’ve always been a champion of a strong national defense, and that begins with the resources we invest here at home.”
Other highlights of the bill include:
- $10 million for solid oxide fuel cell development to power next-generation combat vehicles.
- $10 million in research and development funding for liquid hydrogen refueling systems.
- $5 million for research and development of technology to replace run-flat tires in the military’s vehicles.
- $5 million to develop cybersecurity technologies for Air Force avionics and weapons systems.
- $2 million for research and development of technology to more efficiently recover rare earth metals from recycled electronics.
Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
