1 source · first reported 2h ago

The US Navy has developed a 3D-printing method to repair cracked composite panels on the F/A-18 Super Hornet, aiming to cut repair time by 50%. This innovation allows sailors to fix the jets at their base, reducing downtime. The technology is expected to increase the availability of fighter jets for missions.
This development matters because it showcases the Navy's adoption of additive manufacturing to enhance maintenance efficiency and reduce costs, potentially increasing the readiness of its fighter jet fleet.
How this story unfolded across sources, oldest first.