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A Western Australian metal additive manufacturing company will develop an aircraft propulsion system using advanced 3D metal printing technology.
Aurora Labs, engaged in a $319,000 contract by the Australian Department of Defence, will build on the ongoing development of A3D’s existing micro gas turbines and support defence operations utilising unmanned aerial systems platforms.
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Under the contract, the company is expected to enable rapid prototyping to accelerate Defence innovation, retain intellectual property rights for potential future commercialisation opportunities and strengthen sovereign defence capabilities with Australian-designed and manufactured technology.
“This contract represents a significant milestone in our journey, solidifying A3D’s position as a leader in additive manufacturing and sovereign-engineered propulsion systems,” the company said in a statement.
“The project will focus on developing innovative solutions for unmanned aerial systems, showcasing the potential of scalable, efficient, and locally produced 3D-printed components.
“At Aurora Labs, our mission is to revolutionise manufacturing across industries by combining 3D metal printing expertise with robust testing and quality control to deliver reliable, high-performance solutions.”
Chief executive officer Rebekah Letheby confirmed the contract as a major milestone for the companies’ commitment to Defence innovation.
“We are thrilled to support the ADF’s initiative and look forward to demonstrating the capabilities of this system in the proof-of-concept stage,” Letheby said.
