Defence supplier Snowbird Technologies is integrating a Meltio Engine Blue into its next-generation SAMM Tech platform.
SAMM Tech is a forward-deployable hybrid manufacturing system housed in a ruggedised container that combines additive and subtractive manufacturing capabilities for on-demand repair, replacement, and prototype production in austere conditions. Meltio's Engine Blue technology is an integration kit that features both industrial robotic arms and vertical machining centres, leveraging Meltio’s wire-laser metal 3D printing technology.
Snowbird believes its SAMM Tech offering will help to reduce supply chain dependency, increase mission readiness and enable critical repair and production in remote environments. The system is said to have been designed for rapid deployment and global mobility, and is fully compatible with existing military logistics infrastructure, according to Snowbird.
Integrating the Meltio Engine Blue, the SAMM Tech platform can support a wide range of industrial metals, including aluminium, titanium, and marine-grade bronze.
“This collaboration further validates the role of laser-wire directed energy deposition technology in the most demanding defence environments,” said Scott Morse, Chief Executive at Snowbird Technologies. “By integrating the Meltio Engine Blue into our next-generation SAMM Tech platform, we are demonstrating how laser-wire DED can deliver reliable, repeatable hybrid manufacturing at the point of need, enabling critical repair and production where traditional supply chains and infrastructure are unavailable.”
“Defence organisations require manufacturing solutions that are reliable, flexible, and deployable,” added Gabriel Ortiz, America's Channel Manager at Meltio. “Integrating the Meltio Engine Blue into Snowbird’s containerised system demonstrates how our technology can support expeditionary operations, helping defence users strengthen supply chain resilience and maintain operational readiness in the most challenging environments.”
