Stratasys has announced it will be extending its partnership with BAE Systems, a British defense, security and aerospace multinational with the aim of strengthening the latter’s additive manufacturing solutions in its Land, Maritime and Air sectors.
Through the extended collaboration agreement, Stratasys will supply the aerospace and defense company with increased access to new materials and production technologies that are currently under development or in the pipeline.
The partnership builds on an existing collaboration between the two companies which began in 2006, when BAE Systems first invested in Stratasys’ 3D printing technology. Today, the defense and aerospace company operates a blend of Stratasys’ PolyJet and FDM-based additive manufacturing systems, including a battery of F900 Production 3D printers, which are installed at its advanced manufacturing facility in Samlesbury, England.
“We’re delighted to bolster our relationship with such an innovative partner as Stratasys,” commented Dave Holmes, Manufacturing Director of BAE Systems Air. “Already integrated across our production operations, Stratasys’ technology will continue to be vital in addressing and solving our current and future manufacturing challenges.”
From Stratasys’ perspective, the deepened partnership with BAE will provide valuable insight into the specific needs (and future needs) of an aerospace and defense company as established as BAE Systems. This guidance will enable Stratasys to pursue future R&D programs and develop next-gen additive manufacturing technologies that match the requirements of its industrial clients.
“Stratasys’ close cooperation and knowledge-share with strategic customers like BAE Systems is paramount to ensuring we continue to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to developing and delivering additive manufacturing solutions that meet exacting application requirements within key industries,” added Yann Rageul, Head of Strategic Accounts for EMEA at Stratasys. “We look forward to strengthening our ties and working even more closely with BAE Systems to help realize their short and long-term manufacturing objectives.”
